Agency Encourages Business Development, but Urges Caution with New Kind of Offering

Maine’s Office of Securities issued an advisory Tuesday warning investors to approach “crowdfunding” investment opportunities with great caution. The advisory is posted on the Office’s website at www.investors.maine.gov.

Crowdfunding is an online money-raising strategy that began as a way for the public to donate small amounts of money, often through social networking websites, to help artists, musicians, filmmakers and other creative people finance their projects.

Through the federal Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act, small businesses and entrepreneurs will be able to tap into the “crowd” in search of investments to finance their business ventures. Under the new law, however, these investments opportunities will not be regulated or scrutinized for their legitimacy.

“The Office of Securities encourages business development and investment opportunities, but because the potential for fraud with crowdfunding is significant, investors must be extremely cautious,” said Maine Securities Administrator Judith Shaw. “Crowdfunding will be exempt from oversight—making it even more important for potential investors to do their research, checking references and asking the right questions.”

Congress enacted the JOBS Act last month and directed the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to adopt rules within 270 days to implement a new exemption to allow crowdfunding. Until the rules are adopted any offers or sales of securities purporting to rely on the crowdfunding exemption would be unlawful under the federal securities laws.

“Before the SEC rules are adopted, investors should beware of promoters who jump the gun by offering investments through crowdfunding now,” Administrator Shaw added. “Once exempt, crowdfunding investments will not be reviewed by regulators before being offered to the public, nor will they be required to provide the same level of disclosures to investors or regulators that are required of securities offerings. Investors should expect to be bombarded with offerings and sales pitches.”

Similar exemptions, such as the 1996 passage of the National Securities Markets Improvement Act (NSMIA) which prohibited states from reviewing private offerings made under SEC Regulation D Rule 506 before they were sold to the public, led to many cases of fraud and numerous scams. The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), of which Maine’s Office of Securities is a member, reports these offerings are the most frequent source of enforcement cases handled by state securities regulators.

In issuing the crowdfunding advisory, Administrator Shaw also announced that NASAA has created a new task force to focus on Internet fraud. The Internet Fraud Investigations Project Group was formed to monitor crowdfunding and other Internet offerings.

Consumers with questions about crowdfunding offerings, or any other investment issue, should contact Maine’s Office of Securities before investing. The Office can be reached toll-free at 1-877-624-8551. Information is also available online at www.investors.maine.gov.

The Office of Securities is part of Maine’s Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, which encourages sound ethical business practices through the oversight of insurers, financial institutions, creditors, investment providers, and numerous professions and occupations for the purpose of protecting the citizens of Maine. Consumers can learn more about the Department at www.maine.gov/pfr.

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Saturday, May 19, 7 pm
$6 at the door.

Blues, rock, and funk from this Readfield-area band.  Megan Murphy sings with them.  The Golden Prize opens the show.  Chem-free, supervised.

“Hi, we’re the Sam Whitman Band. We play blues-funk-reggae. Kinda all in one to create a new unique groovy style! If you like artists such as Stevie Ray Vaughan-The Grateful Dead-Bob Marley-and more, you will love the show that we put on.   Please come out and join the jam!”

The Golden Prize — Jam-Space-Blues-Reggae-Funk-Dead

Duncan Allen – Vocals/Guitar; Simon Quist – Vocals/Lead Guitar; Jon Lawrence – Bass; Ryan Benoit – Drums

Golden Prize says: “A group of best friends with lots of character, pumpin’ the heart & soul. Since the age of 13, these four boys wanted nothing but to hone their artistic talents and create, inspire, and enlighten. It’s truly amazing to see these guys come back together from living separate lives and devote to getting people on their feet dancin’!

They’ve began to make a name for themselves by starting late night shows and holding it down till sunrise! The rhythm section unleashes a thick groove while psychedelic guitar tones mesh and float together to steal your face! Duncan Allen’s voice comes shining through to get the other side of your brain moving with some powerful lyrics.

These guys are just getting started!! With a mix of originals and Grateful Dead covers, you can’t go wrong!! “

Johnson Hall
280 Water Street
(Mail) P.O. Box 777
Gardiner, ME 04345

Office hours
M-F, 9:30-5:30
For more info.,
call 582-7144

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Kelly Clark, Mitosis III, 2012, acrylic on canvas

Exhibition on View until July 7, 2012 – free and open to the public
Location: Lobby Gallery (former ATM space) at 45 Memorial Circle in Augusta
Hours: 9am to 9pm daily (the exhibition can be viewed without entering the building and is lit at night)

DETAILS:

The public is invited to visit the lobby gallery at 45 Memorial Circle in Augusta to enjoy artwork by Cony High School Independent Study Art Students Colton Brann, Kelly Clark, Charlie Eames, Marissa Eldridge, Erin Ludwig, Chantel Wellman, Talisan Greaton, Jon Caron and Sabrina Poulin from now through July 7, 2012.   The exhibition, in the former ATM lobby of the 45 Memorial Circle (also known as the “Preti-Flaherty building), is viewable from outside the building from 9am to 9pm daily. Sponsored by the Kennebec Valley Art Association.

The artist are all seniors who have been working independently since January under the guidance of Jason Morgan and Kelly Halle of Cony High School Art Department, focusing on personal goals in art of various media.

Colton Brann has been working 2D and 3D, ranging from highly detailed color pencil drawings to equally detailed ceramic pieces such as his Radiohead, 2012. He has taken all the fine art classes offered at Cony and plans to continue his education to become an art educator.

Kelly Clark hasn’t taken an art classes since her Art One class her freshman year. During this semester she has bloomed as an artist with her pen and ink drawings and her paintings called the Mitosis Series.

Erin Ludwig has a similar story with little art experience. During her independent study, she has explored various subjects in painting and created expressive sculptures of trees with wire and clay.

Chantel Wellman has been involved with the art department the last four years. She has experience in all media offered at Cony, choosing to focus on painting abstracted images inspired from nature and the human form.

Charlie Eames, Untitled, 2012, mixed media on canvas

Charlie Eames has focused in clay for his past art experience at Kents Hill. Now back at Cony, he has found his passion in drawing and painting with his abstracted figurative work.

Sabrina Poulin has focused on clay with Ms. Halle this year and is working with sculptural forms fused with color. She too hasn’t had much art experience until this year.

Marissa Eldridge has worked in multiple media and has done the same for her independent study work. She has worked in clay to complete her butterfly piece, painted expressive portraits, and is currently working out a figurative piece.

Jon Caron has found his passion in clay and choose to also work as an independent study student with Ms. Halle. He has always been involved in the arts at Cony and has participated in Cony’s Art Club.

Credit for IMAGES (attached): photos courtesy of the Cony High School Art Department

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Frisbee Golf on Sunday, May 20th starting @ 10 am! Fee is $10 each or $25 for a family. Lavallee Links Disc Golf, 85 Barber Road, Randolph.  All proceeds go to Maine Issinryu Karate Academies World Team! Everyone is invited to participate! Get together a team and get on the course!

Great Sunday activity for friends and families!

Bonnie Tibbetts
(207) 592-3313

Painting by Abbott Meader, photo courtesy of the artist.

Date and time:
Sunday, May 20, 2012, 1-3pm
Location:
The Harlow Gallery
160 Water Street,
Hallowell, Maine 04347

Cost: $3 donation suggested

Hallowell, Maine – Artists are invited to bring up to three pieces of their own original work to an art critique with Abbott Meader on Sunday afternoon, May 20th from 1-3pm.  The critique will be held at the Harlow Gallery, located at 160 Water Street in downtown Hallowell, with a suggested donation of $3 at the door.  Art2012, the Kennebec Valley Art Association’s 17th annual juried art show will be on view during the critique.  Meader will share his insights on the jurying process (which he has experienced from both sides), and on being accepted and rejected as an artist in general.

A consummate academician, Abbot Meader of Oakland was graduated Magna Cum Laude from Dartmouth and then with an MFA from University of Colorado and is now Professor of Art, Emeritus of Colby College. He is also a filmmaker and has traveled, lectured and studied widely in his lifetime. As an avid fly fisherman, he comes to the Katahdin region to fish and paint regularly throughout the year. He brings to his work the understanding of someone who is not merely an observer but often lives within his subject for periods of time, working with an urgency to report that familiarity.

Harlow Gallery
Kennebec Valley Art Association
160 Water Street
Hallowell, ME 04347
207-622-3813

website: www.harlowgallery.org
Facebook profile: www.facebook.com/theHarlow
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/harlowgallery
Photo archives: picasaweb.google.com/harlowgallery

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Digital History: Stories from Maine Memory Network

Yarmouth: Leader in Soda Pulp

View of Royal River, Forest Paper Co., Yarmouth, ca. 1900

This online exhibit, created by the Yarmouth Historical Society, tells the story of the Forest Paper Co., which was known around the world for its high quality soda pulp and the paper it produced.Between 1874 and 1923 Forest Paper Co. was recognized for its technical innovation and employed hundreds of Yarmouth residents. Key to the operation was the power provided by the Royal River. Click here to read more. Special congratulations to Yarmouth Historical Society which will break ground this week on a major project that will convert a former water district building on the Royal River into a new museum facility.

This Week 

Click this image to see aerial film of Portland’s waterfront taken in 1940.

Tuesday, May 15, 7pm

On the Waterfront: Heritage, Re-use, and Economic Development

Moderator:

Michael Brennan, Mayor, City of Portland

Panelists: Anne Pringle, Community Volunteer; Bill Needelman, Senior Planner, City of Portland; Steve DiMillo, business owner

Development and use of the waterfront is an ongoing policy balancing act, and has significant implications for Portland’s economic development, harborside landscape, and the city’s identity and heritage.

Please join us to learn about the issues that the city, developers, business and property owners, fishermen and lobstermen, preservationists, and others think about when they consider development along the waterfront. In Partnership with Greater Portland Landmarks. This is the fourth of four programs in (Re) Designing the Greater Portland Landscape: Issues in Contemporary Design and Development. Series details.

Next Week

Thursday, May 24, 7pm

The Mysterious Penobscot Belle: Early Photography & A Forgotten Wabanaki Encampment in Portland in the mid-1800s

Speaker: Harald E. L. Prins & Bunny McBride, Kansas State University

The noted anthropologists will explore the story behind a mid-19th century engraving of Mary Louise, a beautiful Penobscot Indian woman, originally published as a “Fashion Plate” in a popular women’s magazine. This is the seventh and final program in the Richard D’Abate Lectures: Conversations About History, Art, and Literature. Series details.

To see a full list of upcoming programs, please click here.

Public programs at MHS are sponsored, in part, by the Margaret E. Burnham Charitable Trust.

Support Your History

Give to the Annual Fund

Donate a Historic Item

Friends of Collections

For more ways to give, visit us online or call 207-774-1822 ext. 206.

Visit Us Online

Maine Historical Society Maine Memory Network Maine History Online

Vintage Maine Images Longfellow Website Museum Store

Online Museum Catalog MHS Library Catalog

This Week at MHS is your online source for exhibits, programs, and events.

Maine Historical Society  489 Congress Street Portland, ME 04101   info@mainehistory.org

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Friday
5:30pm until 9:00pm

On May 18th from 5:30-9pm, Monkitree will hold an opening reception for the current show “Natural Inclination.” Monkitree is celebrating two years in business with a show to benefit the Natural Resources Council of Maine. The artwork in this show is informed by each artist’s appreciation of the natural world, compassion for others, and the desire to connect with them to create solutions. This show will run through July 20th.

Monkitree will donate 10% of all artwork sold during the show to the Natural Resources Council of Maine as well as 20% of the total sales the day of the opening which will include all that Monkitree has to offer- pottery, jewelry, textiles, wood products and more.

Monkitree Gallery
263 Water Street,
Gardiner, ME 04345
View Map · Get Directions

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Known to most of the world as Lyle Lovett’s duet and back-up singer with his Large Band, Chicago born  Francine Reed solo brings the stage alive with gospel, Jazz, blues and R&B.  She’s appeared on stage with Miles Davis, Smokey Robinson, Etta Jones and The Crusaders among others, and she has collaborated with Willie Nelson, Roy Orbison and Delbert McClinton.  She’s a musical experience not to be missed.  Advance tickets $15, day of show tickets $20.  Performance at 8 pm, doors for seating open at 7:30 pm.  Contact the box office at 633-5159 or visit the website boothbayoperahouse.com for tickets and information.

CLICK HERE to hear Why I Don’t Know

CLICK HERE to hear One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show

Portland String Quartet
Tuesday, May 22 2012, 7:30pm

Coming together from musical training at Curtis, Eastman, Indiana, Juilliard, Oberlin, and San Francisco State College, the quartet members have played an important role in the artistic renaissance of the State of Maine, championing Maine and American composers both nationally and internationally. For over 40 years they have played together and for 20 years they served as the artists in residence at Colby College – join us as we welcome Paul Ross, Steve Kecskemethy, Ronald Lantz and Julia Adams back to the Opera House this spring.  Advance tickets $15, day of show $20.  Concert at 7:30 PM, doors for seating open at 7 pm.  Box office 633-5159.

86 Townsend Ave Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538

Phone Numbers:
Administrative Office 207-633-6855
Box Office 207-633-5159

Box Office Hours:
Tuesday through Friday
10 am to 4 pm

Online ticketing closes 4 pm the day prior to ticketed event

Mailing Address:
The Opera House at Boothbay Harbor
PO Box 800
Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538

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The discussion will take place in the Reading Room, and is free and open to the public.

The group opposes the RESTORE’s national park proposal for northern Maine. The presentation will be led by David Trahan, executive director of the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, and Patrick Strauch of the Maine Forest Products Council. It will highlight what is working in the North woods and the public access the people of Maine currently enjoy.

For more information about Preserve Maine Traditions, contact Andy Young at 323-1334, or visit their website at www.preservemainetraditions.com.

Lithgow Public Library
45 Winthrop Street
Augusta, ME 04330
626-2415
lithgow.lib.me.us

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Otherwise, they will have to wait until 9 a.m. for the gate to open in order to access the day use portion of the park in Casco, according to park officials.

This is the second year that the park has offered the Early Launch Permit, said Park Manager Matt McGuire.

“We have had a really good response to the Early Launch Permit, and we encourage anyone interested in finding out more to stop by the park office,” McGuire said.

Sebago Lake State Park will resume its normal schedule of closing the Day Use entrance gates at sunset on Friday, May 11. The park gates normally are closed and locked at sunset each evening and opened at 9 a.m. daily.

The Early Launch Permit is $10 and includes the gate combination. The pass is available at the park office at 11 Park Access Road in Casco (Phone: 207-693-6231).

In a related matter, McGuire said that fishing is “very good right now – now is the time to be fishing” at the park. Reports are that salmon fishing is excellent, with fishermen quickly reaching their limits. Those who don’t have boats also are finding success at Songo Locks, McGuire said.

“The fishermen are getting more successful every day,” he said.

For more information about Sebago Lake State Park, go to: http://www.maine.gov/sebagolake

For more information about Maine state parks, go to: http://www.parksandlands.com

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Maine's First Lady Ann LePage

AUGUSTA – Continuing to be a strong supporter for Maine military families, First Lady Ann LePage will host a luncheon on Friday for Chamber of Commerce members to promote Maine’s “Hire a Veteran” program. The program is part of the Portland Veterans Network which was created by the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The “Hire a Veteran” program is geared toward addressing the needs of veterans returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and offers free chamber benefits to unemployed veterans. The goal of the initiative is to offer free opportunities for unemployed veterans to help them re-integrate into the community, and gain access to fulfilling employment, education, and healthy well-being.

Chamber members will gather at the Blaine House on Friday, May 18, at noon to review progress and learn more about upcoming projects associated with the “Hire a Veteran” effort. “These service members will be returning to their communities and it is incumbent upon all of us to offer support any way we can,” said Mrs. LePage. “Shining a light on what military families sacrifice is only the beginning of what I hope to achieve within my initiative.”

Maine will see hundreds of service members returning home over the next few years and Mrs. LePage believes each one should have an opportunity to reacclimatize his or her self back into the community as easily as possible.

The Portland Regional Chamber has been organizing welcome home gatherings for returning service members and offering support through their membership with activities such as a family day at health organizations to networking opportunities with Portland area business owners. It is First Lady LePage’s hope that other Chambers of Commerce will follow Portland’s lead, creating a state wide environment fully prepared to support returning service members as well as veterans already home.

The goal of the Portland Veterans Network is to provide a one-stop shop that will have a measurable near term impact on the lives of these veterans. The initiatives will include networking opportunities with other chamber members, mentors, and career coaching to aid our veterans in getting jobs. It will also provide resources to give veterans direct access to colleges and universities. Lastly, the program will focus on wellness by provided free access to local gyms, a family week at Camp Kieve Wavus, and free tickets and admission to family recreational opportunities.

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“Links to FDA advice are the most significant source of timely updates. The Maine Department of Agriculture has monitored recalls in other states since the initial outbreak in early April. Products sold in Maine were in included in the expanded recall issued on May 7, 2012,” said Steve Giguere, Acting Director of the Division of Quality Assurance & Regulations. Salmonella is potentially a very serious illness to pets and pet owners.

Human health concerns that might be associated with the potentially contaminated pet food should be reported to Dr. Stephen Sears at the Maine Center for Disease Control. Pet illnesses should be reported to the Maine Department of Agriculture.

The FDA became involved in early April when Salmonella from an intact package of Diamond Naturals Lamb and Rice Formula for Adult Dogs was collected during retail surveillance sampling collected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Diamond Pet Foods was notified of the sampling results, and agreed to voluntarily recall the product.

FDA, Center of Disease Control and state investigations are ongoing in an effort to determine if other brands of dry dog food produced at the Diamond Pet Foods’ South Carolina facility may be linked to confirmed human illnesses.

Consumers should check the company’s website, Diamond Pet Foods Recall Information, for information on how to read lot codes and “best by” dates involved in the recall:

• Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul
• Country Value
• Diamond
• Diamond Naturals
• Premium Edge
• Professional
• 4Health
• Taste of the Wild
• Apex (distributed only in the state of South Carolina)
• Kirkland Signatur
• Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain
• Canidae

The following companies have announced voluntary recalls for products that were also produced at the Gaston, South Carolina facility:

Wellpet LLC

• Wellness Complete Health Super5Mix Large Breed Puppy with “best by” dates of JAN 9 2013 through JAN 11 2013 (15 LB bag, 30 LB bag, 5 oz sample bags)

The company reports that no other Wellpet recipes, sizes or brands of food are impacted by the recall. Complete details are available at Wellpet LLC News7 .

• (Dick Van Patten’s) Natural Balance Pet Foods

“Best by” dates and the states where they were distributed vary for these products. Check the Natural Balance Pet Foods recall website8 for details.

• Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog (5 LB, 15 LB and 28 LB)
• Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog (5 LB, 15 LB and 28 LB)
• Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison Dog (5 LB, 15 LB and 28 LB)
• Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog (5 LB)
• Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Large Breed Bites (28 LB)
• Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Small Breed Bites (5 LB and 12.5 LB)

Diamond Pet Foods continues to work directly with distributors and retailers where the recalled products are carried to remove them as quickly as possible from the marketplace. FDA will provide updates on the recall and the investigation as new information becomes available.

To report human health concerns contact Dr. Stephen Sears at the Maine Center for Disease Control at 1-800-821-5821.

To report animal illness associated with pet food contact the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator for Maine at 1-800-891-8295. Or to report electronically go to:http://www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov/

For more information about the recall go to: http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/Corenetwork/ucm302904.htm

For more information about the Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources go to: http://www.maine.gov/agriculture/index.shtml

Maine Department of Agriculture Contact: Steve Giguere, 207-287-4456, steve.giguere@maine.gov

Are You Really My Friend?

Tanja Alexia Hollander: Are You Really My Friend?

On view through June 17

“I have crawled on the floor, played Legosand read books with children I just met, admired chickens and prize roosters, shared a bowl of gumbo in New Orleans with a friend I hadn’t met in real life…and listened to stories of family tragedy and strength.”  –Artist Tanja Alexia Hollander, The Globe and Mail

The Winslow Homer Studio

Mountain Lake Journal EXTRA: An American Original
The program provides an in depth look at the history of Winslow Homer, from his beginnings as an illustrator for Harper’s Weekly to his work on Prouts Neck at the Studio.
Learn more about the Winslow Homer Studio.

Blog: Free Friday Night at the Museum

The Museum blog looks at last Free Friday night’s activities. Artist Intervention with Karen Gelardi gave visitors the opportunity to collect botanical prints made by the artist and Parlor Talk: Collaboration with Might & Main premiered new Winslow Homer products!

Movies at the Museum

Dinner and a Movie! Enjoy a light dinner before a movie! Visit the Museum Café by Aurora Provisions for seasonally inspired soups and salads, gourmet sandwiches, and creative entrées. Beer and wine served. No admission required to dine. Free Wi-Fi. Menu changes daily.

Monsieur Lazhar 

Friday, May 18, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 19, 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 20, 2 p.m.

Friday, May 25, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 26, 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 27, 2 p.m.

PG-13

In Montreal, a school teacher dies abruptly. Having learned of the incident in the newspaper, a 55-year-old immigrant goes to the school to offer his services as a substitute teacher. Quickly hired to replace the deceased, he finds himself in an establishment in crisis, while going through his own personal tragedy.

Click here for complete movie listings

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Portland Museum of Art | Seven Congress Square | Portland | ME | 04101

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Friday, May 25th at 7pm
Saturday, May 26th at 2pm & 7pm
Sunday, May 27th at 7pm

Tickets:
$7 General Admission
$6 Seniors
$5 Grand Members

Click here for tickets and info

USA. 2hrs. Directed by Steven Soderbergh. R.

Beautiful freelance covert operative Mallory Kane (newcomer Gina Carano) has been double crossed. She needs to use all of her skills, tricks and abilities to escape an international manhunt, make it back to the United States, protect her family, and exact revenge on those that have betrayed her. With Channing Tatum, Bill Paxton, Michael Fassbender, Antonio Banderas, Michael Douglas and Ewan MacGregor.

Making of the Ring Documentary Film

Friday, June 1st at 6pm

Tickets:
$7 General Admission
$6 Seniors
$5 Grand Members

Click here for tickets and info

Estimated running time: 1:55

The stakes could not be higher as visionary director Robert Lepage, the world’s greatest singers, and the Metropolitan Opera tackle Wagner’s Ring cycle. An intimate look at the enormous theatrical and musical challenges of staging opera’s most monumental work, the film chronicles the quest to fulfill Wagner’s dream of a perfect Ring.

Ring Cycle Das Rheingold

Saturday, June 2nd at 1pm
Thursday, June 7th at 1pm

Tickets:
$22 Reserved Seating
$14 Students (15 & under)

Click here for tickets and info

Estimated running time: 2:48

Conceived by Wagner as a prologue to the Ring cycle, Das Rheingold sets forth the dramatic issues that play out in the three subsequent operas. Gold from the depths of the Rhine River is stolen by the dwarf Alberich, who uses it to forge a ring that will give him unlimited power. The theft sets in motion a course of events that will eventually alter the order of the universe. Bryn Terfel as Wotan, lord of the gods, heads the cast.

Conductor: James Levine
Cast: Wendy Bryn Harmer, Stephanie Blythe, Patricia Bardon; Richard Croft, Gerhard Siegel, Bryn Terfel, Eric Owens, Franz-Josef Selig, Hans-Peter König

Original Live in HD transmission: October 9, 2010

Ring Cycle Die Walkurie

Tuesday, June 5th at 1pm

Tickets:
$22 Reserved Seating
$14 Students (15 & under)

Click here for tickets and info

Estimated running time: 4:19

This extraordinarily powerful work of theater focuses on some of the Ring’s most interesting characters at decisive moments of their lives: Wotan, whose violation of his own laws has jeopardized the gods’ rule; his twin offspring, Siegmund and Sieglinde, who are meant to save the gods; and, above all, his heroic Valkyrie daughter Brünnhilde, who makes a fateful decision that shatters her world. This production marked soprano Deborah Voigt’s first performances as Brünnhilde. Bryn Terfel again is Wotan, Jonas Kaufmann and Eva-Maria Westbroek star as the twins, Siegmund and Sieglinde, and Stephanie Blythe sings Fricka.

Conductor: James Levine
Cast: Deborah Voigt, Eva-Maria Westbroek, Stephanie Blythe; Jonas Kaufmann, Bryn Terfel, Hans-Peter König

Original Live in HD transmission: May 14, 2011

Telephone inquires are welcome.

Box Office
Tuesday – Friday
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Saturday
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207-667-9500

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207-667-5911

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Francine Reed is just as happy down home in the juke joint as she is in the worlds finest concert halls – and always singing with class, distinction and soul. A W.C. Handy nominee for her solo recording I Want You to Love Me, the widely recognized larger than life voice in Lyle Lovett’s Large Band has also collaborated with many of the most respected names in gospel, country, rhythm and blues, including Delbert McClinton and Willie Nelson. Based now in Atlanta, Georgia,  Francine will be appearing during the summer of 2012 with Teatro ZinZanni in Seattle, Washington. Get your tickets early!  http://www.wix.com/nytaglenn/francine

FRANCINE REED BIOGRAPHY

The blues can be defined in a limitless number of ways, but it will forever be the soul’s measurement of self-expression and self-healing. Where mere words cannot articulate, and movement is incomplete, music bridges the chasm. Francine Reed’s new album, SHADES OF BLUE, is the language of human spirit distilled through a voice of radiance. Known to most of the wold as Lyle Lovett’s duet and back-up vocalist, this Chicago-born songstress has been singing professionally since she was a child in her family’s gospel group. “ I always say I was born singing,” recalls Francine. “When the doctor slapped me on the ass, I went (singing) ‘Look at me!” Obligations resulting from a broken marriage prevented Ms. Reed from pursuing her dream full-time until her children were grown up and self-sufficient.

During those years, however, Francine performed in local jazz clubs and at various functions, eventually rising to prominence in her adopted hometown of Phoenix, Arizona. As a support act, Ms. Reed appeared on the bill with luminaries such as Miles Davis, Smokey Robinson, Etta James, and The Crusaders. In 1985, she met the then unknown singer Lyle Lovett and they formed a strong alliance that continues to this day. “Lyle has always intrigued me, and has been my greatest influence in the last fifteen years of my life. Just seeing the amount of importance he puts into every performance and into every recording session has had a tremendous effect on me. Being around musicians of his caliber has brought me to a higher level.”

Francine provides Lyle Lovett and his Large Band with an indelible stage presence and harmonic texture that has fans and critics worldwide. Reminiscing on their initial encounter at a recording session, “I couldn’t believe the voice I heard in the headphones belonged to THAT guy, I could’ve sworn that wasn’t him singing.” Performing with Lovett’s ensemble for over a decade, Ms. Reed has appeared on several of the artist’s platinum discs, and sang alongside Mr. Lovett on recent broadcasts of “Late Night with David Letterman”, “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno, and “Regis a d Kathy Lee.” In addition to her touring schedule with Lovett, Ms. Reed has appeared on recordings by Delbert McClinton and Roy orbison, among others. Her distinctive vocals can also be herd on several television commercials including Senekot Laxative (“I Feel Good”) and in a scene from the 1993 hit film, THE FIRM, via Tom Cruise’s character’s disc player. “I can still remember my first performance when I was a three year old in my aunt’s church. Her name was Helen Francis, for whom I’m named, and I was so small they had to put me on the piano. I used to listen to rehearsals with her gospel choir and I’d sing “I Wanna See Jesus” in front of the congregation.

An audience to me could be just one or two people. My mom would have guest over and point to me and say ‘sing a song.’ And I would just go on and sing, and I’d even make up my own songs. It’s a natural God-given talent.” Francine Reed’s solo career began in the mid –1990s after she relocated to Georgia. Francine released her debut, I WANT YOU TO LOVE ME, in 1985, which included a cameo by Mr. Lovett. A year later, she followed up with CAN’T MAKE IT ON MY OWN, which featured studio legends Al Kooper (organ) and Bob Babbait (bass), along with McClinton. Both records were highly acclaimed with the later being the catalyst for a prestigious W.C. Handy Artist of the Year and Song of the Year nominations. Bonnie Raitt praised Francine Reed during a concert at Chastain Park when she walked on stage with Ms. Reed’s album and proclaimed. “You folks have a national treasure here in Atlanta.” Produced by Bryan Cole and Edd Miller for CMO Productions in Atlanta. SHADES OF BLUE is a stellar collection of ten compositions that allow Francine Reed to expand on the legacy in which she carved out for herself. Featuring up-tempo dance selections, heartfelt ballads, and lush orchestrations, SHADES OF BLUE is essential listening. “My brother Tony was the one who introduced me to jazz. Like most of my family I was into R& B, Motown, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, and Nancy Wilson.

We all used to listen to the radio and were very influenced by everyone we heard. And we thought we could do what everyone else was doing.” “Got A Right To Sing The Blues” is one of the many special moments on her latest release. The duel vocals of Francine and her sister Margo bespeak a deep passion for the blues. “I always loved the way Margo did this tune,” notes Francine, “and anything we sing together is going to be enjoyable.” Choosing the songs for SHADES OF BLUE was no easy task for a singer that is well versed in a number of genres. “Producer Bryan (Cole), and Edd (Miller) did everything for me on this album except the singing! We received tunes from advertisements placed in magazines for me, and they would weed through all the tapes and select what was right. Their expertise made it all happen.” However, the selections do reveal a very personal aspect of the artists’ life. “The Man That Got Away,” “Wrong Man For The Job,” “I Have A Right To Know,” and I’m A Handful” all ring true. “”Oh yes, it’s a man thing…my breakup with a gentleman had a lot to do with these songs. It comes around every now and then.”

“When we’re in the studio, I always try to go with first takes. Since I’m constantly working I usually don’t have the luxury of setting aside time specifically to record.” On the subject of capturing the energy of a live performance in a recording booth, and keeping the concert flame burning, Ms. Reed notes “it’s a mindset for me that I’m still trying to master. If it’s a really good song, then it just comes out of me. At a gig, I try to phrase like a record which is what the audience comes to hear. I learned that from being on the road with Lyle. Other times I have a tendency to be more improvisational and feed of the musicians and the crowd. Then I can kick it up a notch. But how that comes about, I really don’t know. I just open my mouth and sing from the heart. I’m really blessed.” CONTACT: Al Risi / PLATINUM ENTERTAINMENT 770-664-9262 ext 5762 arisi@pt-ent.com CMO Productions / Management Bryan Cole and Edd Miller 404-355-0909 www.cmopro.com

Partial discography
(from Francine Reed – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

With Lyle Lovett -

• Lyle Lovett and His Large Band(January 1989)
  • “Here I Am”
  • “Cryin’ Shame”
  • “What Do You Do/The Glory of Love” – duet
• Live in Texas (June 1999)

With Delbert McClinton -

• Never Been Rocked Enough(1992)
  • “I Used to Worry” – duet

With Willie Nelson -

• Milk Cow Blues (2000)

Solo -

• I Want You to Love Me (1995)
• Can’t Make It on My Own (1996)
• Shades of Blue (1999)
• Here Comes Frani Claus (2000)
• I Got a Right!…To Some of My Best (2001)
• American Roots: Blues (2002)
• Wild Women Do Get The Blues (2006)
• Blues Collection (2006)

References

1. ^ Skelly, Richard. “Biography: Francine Reed”. AMG. Retrieved 9 May 2010.
2. ^ “Who is Francine Reed?”, Francine Reed official website

External links

• FrancineReed.net
• Arizona Blues Hall of Fame Website
• “Francine Reed”, New Georgia Encyclopedia Website
• Blues Music Awards

Slates Monday Night Concert Series

Slates offers a full menu on these nights along with fine
desserts & drinks – from 5:30pm to 8pm -
or just come enjoy the music!
For reservations call (207) 622-9575
167 Water Street, Hallowell, ME.

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June 1, 2, 8, and 9 at 7:30pm
June 3 and 10 at 2:00pm

Studio Theater
Tickets: $12 Adults, $10 Seniors or Youths
To purchase tickets, click here.

Andrew Rally seems to have it all: celebrity and acclaim from his starring role in a hit television series; a rich beautiful girlfriend; a glamorous, devoted agent; the perfect New York apartment; and the chance to play Hamlet in Central Park. There are, however, a couple of glitches in paradise. Andrew’s series has been canceled; his girlfriend is clinging to her chastity with unyielding conviction; and he has no desire to play Hamlet.

When Andrew’s agent visits him, she reminisces about her brief romance with John Barrymore many years ago, in Andrew’s apartment. This prompts a seance to summon his ghost. From the moment Barrymore returns, dressed in high Shakespearean garb, Andrew’s life is no longer his own. Barrymore, fortified by champagne and ego, presses Andrew to accept the part and fulfill his actor’s destiny. The action becomes more hilarious with the entrance of Andrew’s deal-making friend from LA, spouting the laid-back hype of the Coast and offering Andrew a fabulous new TV deal worth millions of dollars. The laughs are nonstop as Andrew wrestles with his conscience, Barrymore, his sword, and the fact that he fails as Hamlet in Central Park.

Missoula Children’s Theatre

Registration Materials Now Available for Three Fantastic Sessions!
Open for Children Entering Grades 1-8 in the Fall

July 30-August 4
Sponsored by Belgrade Lakes Resources, LLC

Somewhere in desert country, the inhabitants of West Sandy Bottoms are preparing for the highlight of their year – the annual race between the Reptiles and the Mammals. A company of strolling actors attempts to tell the tale in classical fashion. The Hare’s weasely managers brag about their racing star as the various reptiles assemble to choose their candidate. Fan clubs are preparing their cheers as the big day draws near. Philoh Ferret reminds the racing fans that his service station is for “mammals only.” As we see the race through the eyes of a TV news team covering the event, we soon discover that there is more than a sporting rivalry between the brown animals and the green animals. Loyalties to their specific colors create a real animosity among these creatures. Sound familiar? As the race proceeds, a tiny bunny is lost in the wilds of Tornado Gulch and, almost miraculously, color is forgotten as the mammals and reptiles join in the search. The wisdom of the old tortoise and the lesson learned by the cocky hare remind us all that “color is just a color — it’s just decorated skin.” In the end, the animals realize the folly of their ways and live happily together in their sandy home.

August 6-11
Sponsored by Beatrice Dubord, in memory of Robert Dubord

Deep in the royal swamp, a lonely Frog retrieves a golden ball for Princess Prim in exchange for friendship and comfort. The spoiled princess doesn’t want to live up to her part of the bargain, and puts her royal Knights on alert. And so the trouble begins. Luckily, Frog gets some good advice from Ollie the wise old Aspen tree, the well-read Alligator, and the kindly Swamp Things. The Ducks, a busy Fly and dancing Flamingos also come to Frog’s assistance as the Frog’s kindly servant tirelessly tries to set things right. Even the Queen, kindly Princess Proper, and spunky Princess Peppy get involved and, despite the trouble caused by the nasty Venus Fly Traps, all ends happily. Our hero becomes a Prince (formerly known as Frog) and realizes that friendships are made, not bought — and he discovers that it is not what you are but who you are that counts.

August 13-18
Sponsored by Fred’s Coffee

Poor Hank and Gretchen! All of their friends, off to summer camp, have left them behind. And their Mom, struggling alone to make ends meet, seems to have time for nothing but work. While waiting for dinner, prepared by eccentric but lovable Uncle Wally, Hank and Gretchen fall asleep and dream their way to times gone by. They wake with a start! Their clothes are so strange — and so are their names. Lost in the deep dark woods, Hansel and Gretel search for the path which will lead them to better times at home. But as evening approaches and the moon rises above the trees, Hansel and Gretel are not alone! Nasty Nasties dart from tree to tree as sweet little Wallybirds innocently munch on the cookie crumbs left as a map on the forest floor. Crafty cooks and Gingerbread Men lead our heroes to a colorful cottage concocted completely of candy and cakes, where Hansel and Gretel unravel the secret of the Wildwood Witch. There’s music and laughter and thrills and chills. So join the fun as Hansel and Gretel’s dream is mysteriously blended with real life, and the lessons of one apply to the other. You’ll learn the secret of the Wildwood — but, shhh — don’t tell!

Camp runs Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4:00pm at the Waterville Opera House, with a Saturday performance at 3:00pm. Tuition is $200 per session, or $500 for all three sessions. A sibling discount and some scholarships are available. To register, download the form available here. If you have any questions, please call or email.

2012-13 Educational Programming
Enriching Opportunities for Children of All Ages!

We the People
Presented by TheatreWorks USA
November 7 at 9:30am and 12 noon

Recommended for grades 4-8

Just as the election results are in the news, TheatreWorks USA presents a new rock musical that makes civics and socials studies topics fun and accessible. Dawn Shapiro is a typical modern student who receives an inspiring visit from the Founding Fathers. Topics covered include the creation of American government, the First Amendment, the two houses of Congress, checks and balances, and the electoral process.

Junie B. Jones
Presented by TheatreWorks USA
November 19 at 9:30am and 12 noon

Recommended for grades K-3

Outspoken, precocious, lovable Junie B. Jones stars in a colorful, funny, fast-paced musical about new friends, new glasses, sugar cookies, the annual kickball tournament, and other first grade angst-ridden situations. Follow her adventures as she writes down the story of her life in her “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal.” The musical is based on four volumes in Barbara Park’s Junie B. Jones series.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Presented by Shakespeare & Co.
March 21 at 9:30am

Recommended for grades 6 and up

Four young lovers journey into a moonlit forest, where their romantic intrigues are complicated by the quarreling King and Queen of the Fairies. Add a group of amateur actors and the mischievous Puck and you have one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. The story is fun for younger viewers, while older students can appreciate the wit of Shakespreare’s wordplay.

The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse
Presented by TheatreIV
April 4 at 9:30am and 12 noon

Recommended for grades K-3

A quiet and simple country life or the fast-paced excitement of the city? That’s the question confronting the Country Mouse in this square-dance-meets-sock-hop retelling of the classic Aesop’s fable. As the Country Mouse ponders the abundant riches of the big city, he feels the tug of the different kind of riches he left behind in the country. What will he decide? Watch this rock-and-roll hoedown and find out!!

To hold seats for your school group, click here and fill out the reservation form. Seats are reserved in the order in which reservation forms, with deposits, are received. For more information, call (207) 873-7000.
Need a little help to bring your students to the Opera House? Apply for the Ticket to Ride grant through the Maine Arts Commission. The application is very short and easy to complete.
The Waterville Opera House’s Arts & Education programming is made possible by the generosity of the Borman Family Foundation, Inland Hospital, and Walter J. Simcock.

Behind the Curtain…

If you were in the audience for Opening Night, you know what an exciting evening it was! Here are a few photos to mark the occasion.

The audience crowds the refurbished lobby.

A look at the brand-new curtain and valance from the center balcony.

Lisa Neal kicks off the performance with “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” from Gypsy — the first show performed in the Opera House after its 1980s renovation.

Our Season Sponsors

Waterville Opera House | 93 Main Street, Third Floor | Waterville | ME | 04901

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Susan Conley

Join Us at TEDx Engage!
Saturday, 5.19.12
Hannaford Hall, USM, Portland

Dear Telling Room Friend,

We are pleased to invite you to join us on Saturday, May 19th at the TEDxDirigo Engage event at the University of Southern Maine’s Hannaford Hall, where author and Telling Room co-founder Susan Conley will give a talk on how The Telling Room uses dynamic, community-based creative writing programs to engage young people throughout Maine.

TEDxDirigo is a world-class platform to celebrate innovation and creativity in Maine. In the same spirit of the state motto, TEDxDirigo leads the way with ideas from Maine’s brightest innovators and change makers. This special TEDxDirigo Engage event was created to answer a question often heard after their annual, signature event: What do we do now? We are thrilled to be joining other Maine nonprofits and community leaders at this event, who will all be speaking about how they engage in Maine, converting their ideas and passion into action and impact.

In addition to Susan Conley‘s presentation, Telling Room staff and Teaching Artists will be on hand to engage attendees in an interactive writing project onsite. We hope you will join us!

To apply to attend, head over to TEDxDirigo’s website, and please give us a call anytime if you have questions or would like more information.

The Telling Room
225 Commercial St.
Suite 201
Portland, ME 04101
www.tellingroom.org

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Grammy Award-winning harmonica master James “Mr. Superharp” Cotton and his band will perform at the Chocolate Church Arts Center in Bath on Saturday, June 2, 2012. Cotton’s latest CD, the Grammy-nominated GIANT, is his long-awaited return to Alligator Records. Cotton, who in 2012 is celebrating his 68th year as a professional musician (starting at the age of nine), has recorded almost 30 solo albums, including two highly-regarded releases for Alligator in the 1980s and the famed Harp Attack! with Junior Wells, Carey Bell and Billy Branch in 1990. In 2011, Cotton won three Living Blues awards: Male Blues Artist Of The Year, Most Outstanding Musician–Harmonica and Best Blues Album for GIANT.

Concert information is as follows:
Date: Saturday, June 2, 2012
Venue: Chocolate Church Arts Center
Address: 804 Washington St.
City: Bath, ME
Phone: 207-442-8455
Showtime: 7:30pm
Ticket price: $32 advance / $35 at the door
Website: www.chocolatechurcharts.org

Over the course of his storied career, Cotton has seemingly done it all. As a small boy he learned harmonica directly from Sonny Boy Williamson. He toured with Howlin’ Wolf, recorded for Sun Records, and spent twelve years with Muddy Waters before stepping out on his own. Leading his own band, he rose to the very top of blues and rock scenes, touring the world non-stop and earning his reputation as one of the most powerful live blues performers in the world.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Giant is a ferocious blast of brash boogie blues. Produced by Cotton, Jacklyn Hairston and Derek O’Brien and recorded by Stuart Sullivan at Wire Recording in Austin, Texas, Giant features twelve tracks, including four new Cotton originals and co-writes, alongside songs made famous by Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Ivory Joe Hunter and others. Throughout his career, Cotton has always led great bands, and the players on Giant are no exception. With guitarists/vocalists Slam Allen and Tom Holland, bassist Noel Neal and drummer Kenny Neal, Jr., Giant is not just a reminder of Cotton’s legendary status, it is a vibrant, hard-hitting album made by one of the true blues masters.

Giant reaffirms James Cotton’s high-compression blues harmonica playing is a true force of nature. As The San Francisco Examiner says, “James Cotton is an inimitable blues legend. His wailing harmonica blows them away. His improvisations on the blues are full of fun and good humor. The blues don’t get much better.”

In June 2010, Cotton was honored at New York’s Lincoln Center, where his friends Hubert Sumlin, Pinetop Perkins, Taj Mahal, Shemekia Copeland and others paid tribute in an all-star concert. There James Cotton played to yet another sold-out venue, with fans cheering the man known worldwide as “Mr. Superharp,” an undisputed giant of the blues.

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Education News for May 14, 2012

Odeon Orchestras Spring Concerts
Experience the joy of music and support your friends and neighbors!
Allegro, Symphony, and Chamber Orchestras concert
FREE and open to the public!
Sunday, May 20, 4:00 p.m.
Rockport Opera House

Adult Orchestra concert
FREE and open to the public!
Tuesday, May 22, 6:30 p.m.
John St. Church, Camden

Bay Chamber invites the local community to experience the joy of music and support your friends and neighbors at the Odeon Youth Orchestras Spring concert on Sunday, May 20 at the Rockport Opera House at 4:00 p.m. for the Allegro, Symphony, and Chamber ensembles, and on Tuesday, May 22 at John Street Methodist Church at 6:30 p.m. for the Adult ensemble.  Both concerts are free and open to the public.

The concert on Sunday, May 20 will include two chamber ensembles: the Kräftig Piano Quartet featuring Fiona Boyd, violin; Duncan Hall, cello; Sam McKenna, piano and oboe; and Teal Vickery, viola and Bay Chamber’s Odeon Trio featuring Elizabeth Belair on clarinet, Davis Boardman on violin, and Aiden Gordon on piano.

The members of the Bay Chamber Odeon Allegro, Symphony, Adult, and Chamber Orchestras rehearse all year, honing their skills and working as a team to create beautiful music.  The players range in age from 6 to 50+ and will play familiar classical and contemporary music where each level of orchestra highlights the ability of its players.   Students are guided by conductor Deirdre McClure and Gilda Joffe, Music Director.

_______________________________________________________

Odeon Orchestras Auditions:

Make Music with Friends!

Ensemble Opportunities for all Ages and Abilities!

Interested in joining one of Bay Chamber’s exciting Odeon ensembles?  Young musicians of all abilities and instruments are invited to audition for Odeon Orchestras on Tuesday, May 22nd from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. at Bay Chamber’s Music School located at 18 Central Street in Rockport, just down the hill from the Opera House. No auditions are required for the Odeon Adult Orchestra.

Rehearsals take place at the Bay Chamber Music School in Rockport, which offers private instruction in violin, viola, cello, guitar, winds, brass, percussion, voice and piano to musicians of all ages and abilities.

Guitar Ensemble

Inviting guitarists to join in a workshop/ensemble with Jeffrey Rojo

Bay Chamber Music School invites guitarists to join another evening Guitar Workshop/Ensemble with faculty member Jeff Rojo onThursday, May 17 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.  The workshop and ensemble is open to all guitar lovers of all ages and levels seeking to broaden their musical horizons. Depending on the interest of the group, the ensemble may continue to meet monthly over the summer.

Pre-registration is required and the fee is just $15 per person.

OUR SPONSORS:

Season Underwriter

Associate Underwriter

____________________________________________________

Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School

18 Central Street
P.O. Box 599
Rockport, ME  04856

www.baychamberconcerts.org
Facebook.com/BayChamberME

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