bathbrunswickregionalchamber

Atlantic AV Becomes Maine's First Control4 Certified Showroom

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 19:12:14 GMT

For Immediate Release November 19, 2024

Atlantic AV Becomes Maine's First Control4 Certified Showroom

Brunswick, Maine – Atlantic AV proudly announces its designation as Maine's first Control4 Certified Showroom, a significant milestone that solidifies the company's position as the state's premier lifestyle integrator. With this certification, Atlantic AV is redefining how Mainers experience home technology by offering an interactive, immersive way to explore advanced, integrated solutions to enhance everyday living.

Reimagining Home Integration

Located in Brunswick, the Control4 Certified Showroom provides customers a hands-on opportunity to explore integrated systems that harmonize lighting, audio, video, security, and more. As a lifestyle integrator, Atlantic AV goes beyond the outdated "smart home" concept to focus on seamless, personalized solutions that elevate how people live and connect with their homes.

Ryan Thurston, Founder, and CEO of Atlantic AV, emphasized the importance of this certification:

"At Atlantic AV, we are committed to helping our customers design a lifestyle that blends technology effortlessly into their daily routines. Becoming Maine's first Control4 Certified Showroom allows us to showcase our expertise as a lifestyle integrator, creating smart and thoughtfully integrated systems to make life easier, more enjoyable, and more connected."

Key Benefits of a Control4 Certified Showroom:

Hands-On Demonstration: Customers can interact with integrated systems in a real-world environment and experience how Atlantic AV's solutions can transform their lifestyles.
Seamless Integration: The showroom highlights how Control4 technology connects various home systems—lighting, audio, video, and security—into one cohesive, intuitive experience.
Expert Guidance: Atlantic AV's trained professionals work closely with customers to design personalized solutions tailored to their unique needs.
Exclusive Access: Customers gain access to premium products and solutions available only through Control4 Certified Showrooms.
Trusted Credibility: Certification underscores Atlantic AV's leadership in delivering advanced, customized home integration systems.

Elevating the Way Maine Lives

The Control4 Certified Showroom represents a new chapter in home technology, enabling Atlantic AV to offer an unparalleled customer experience. By helping customers see, feel, and understand the possibilities of advanced home integration, Atlantic AV reinforces its mission to be Maine's go-to lifestyle integrator, creating thoughtful solutions that redefine how homes work for their owners.

About Atlantic AV

Atlantic AV specializes in designing and installing custom home technology solutions, including audio, video, lighting, automation, and security systems. Based in Brunswick, Maine, Atlantic AV is committed to enhancing lives through innovative, fully integrated solutions that reflect its expertise as a lifestyle integrator.

Contact Information:

Bob Ferro

Marketing Director

Email: bferro@atlanticav.com

Office: 207-373-1147 X101

Mobile: 207-200-0716

121 Orion Avenue, Brunswick, ME 04011

Bowdoin International Music Festival Returns to Nomad Pizza to Celebrate Music and Community

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 14:58:54 GMT

Bowdoin International Music Festival Returns to Nomad Pizza to Celebrate Music and Community

BRUNSWICK, ME — The Bowdoin International Music Festival returns to Nomad Pizza to present three chamber music concerts on November 18, February 24, and May 12. The Festival is bringing back the popular series to give music enthusiasts more opportunities to experience superb classical music and gather in Brunswick throughout the year. “Each evening is a celebration of chamber music, local cuisine, and our Midcoast community,” said Festival Executive Director Daniel Nitsch. “And because these events resonate so strongly with audiences, we are upping our investment into year-round music in Brunswick, this season bringing more artists for our cooler months, and even moving a piano into Nomad!”

This year’s series features the Ying Quartet alongside friends of the Quartet and Festival. Violinist Ayano Ninomiya and pianist Pei-Shan Lee will join brothers David Ying and Phillip Ying for the February 24 concert, and cellist Edward Arron will join the Ying Quartet on May 12. The series kicks off on Monday, November 18 with the Ying Quartet performing Hugo Wolf’s Italian Serenade, Giacomo Puccini’s Chrysanthemums, and Franz Schubert’s “Death and the Maiden” Quartet. Wolf, Puccini, and Schubert are perhaps best known for their vocal music, and these string quartets reflect each composer’s mastery of vocal expression even in their instrumental writing. The Yings note: “This music inspires us toward our quartet’s goal of singing and storytelling through our instruments with as much communicative power as the human voice.”

Join the Festival at Nomad. Purchase tickets online at bowdoinfestival.org or call 207-373-1400. The series is sponsored by Lebel & Harriman Retirement Advisors, Nomad Pizza, OneSixtyFive: The Inn on Park Row, and The Times Record.

Event Overview 

What: Chamber music with the Ying Quartet and friends, gourmet pizza, and craft beverages.

Series Dates: November 18, 2024; February 24, 2025; May 12, 2025

When: Doors and Bar open at 6:00 PM, Concert begins at 7:00 PM, Pizza Reception at 8:15 PM. 

Where: Nomad Pizza, 14 Maine Street, Brunswick, ME 04011. 

Tickets: Tickets are $89 (or discounted series pass). Tickets include the concert, gourmet pizza, craft beer, and wine. For more information go to  bowdoinfestival.org  or call 207-373-1400.  

Festival Mission

The mission of the Bowdoin International Music Festival is to prepare gifted young musicians from around the world for a life in music through study with world-class artists, and to present classical music in concerts throughout Midcoast Maine at the highest artistic standards. Over its history, the Festival has established itself as a vital force throughout the music world. The Festival’s 61st season will take place June 30 – August 8, 2025. Visit us at bowdoinfestival.org . 

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FMI:

Lori Hopkinson, 207-373-1400, info@bowdoinfestival.org

BBRC Statement on the AFFF Spill on Brunswick Landing

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 13:46:09 GMT

BBRC Statement on the AFFF Spill on Brunswick Landing

September 20, 2024

As many know by now, on August 19th, 2024, the fire suppression system in Hangar 4 on Brunswick Landing malfunctioned, releasing approximately 1,400- 1,600 gallons of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam which contains PFOS/PFOA or otherwise known as “forever chemicals”.

Soon after this occurred, our chamber heard from member-businesses on Brunswick Landing that they felt that they did not receive the necessary information needed to be able to assure employees and customers that it was safe to continue to do business. As a landing-based business ourselves, we sympathize with those members and agree that the initial lack of communication and public information was disconcerting and harmful to our businesses.

Our concern is that trust has been lost between MRRA and the larger Brunswick community due to an initial lack of communication and verified information. For many, moving forward is difficult without trust and we need answers as to how and why this event happened to regain that trust. Ultimately, we all want the same thing: to know that our water, waterways, land, and air are safe for everyone to use and enjoy.

The latest updates from MRRA on the status of Hangar 5 and Hangar 6 (which have similar suppression systems as to Hangar 4) give a clear accounting on what the fire suppression system statuses are for those two buildings, as well as the next steps MRRA will be taking to help ensure those systems are as safe as possible.

The link for that update published on September 18, 2024 is here: https://brunswicklanding.us/update-on-hangars-5-and-6-our-commitment-to-accountability-transparency-and-collaboration/.

We believe that there can only be one objective right now and that is to ensure that we continue to have clean water at Brunswick Landing and the surrounding area.

Our chamber is committed to helping this process in any way possible and sharing all pertinent information as we receive it. The Town of Brunswick will be using their Notify Me system to send out notifications when new information is released. You can sign up using the following link: https://brunswickme.gov/list.aspx.

A Message from the Maine State Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Team regarding MDOL's Paid Family and Medical Leave Education Initiative

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 14:06:38 GMT

For Immediate Release: September 30, 2024

Maine Department of Labor Launches Statewide Education Initiative Ahead of 2025 Rollout of New Paid Family and Medical Leave Law

Partners with Four Statewide Organizations for Comprehensive Webinar Series to Equip Workers, Employers, and Self-Employed Individuals with Essential Knowledge

MAINE - With contributions to Maine's Paid Family and Medical Leave program - https://www.maine.gov/paidleave/ set to begin on January 1, 2025, the Maine Department of Labor (MDOL) today launched a multi-channel education campaign It's How We Care. It's Who We Are designed to provide guidance and support to Maine's 680,000 workers, approximately 40,000 small employers, and self-employed individuals across the state about the new law. To kick off the campaign, MDOL has partnered with four statewide organizations, the Maine Immigrants' Rights Coalition, the Maine Paid Leave Coalition, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), and the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, to host a series of informational webinars in October.

"This new law will provide critical support for Maine workers during some of life's most challenging moments. It's essential that both workers and employers are fully informed and prepared as we implement the Paid Family and Medical Leave program," said Laura Fortman, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Labor . "By ensuring everyone understands the timing, benefits and responsibilities of the law, we can make the transition smoother for all, creating a stronger, more resilient workforce and economy for our state. We encourage workers, employers, and self-employed individuals to participate in the upcoming webinars to stay informed and ask questions about the program's implementation."

Webinar Series

Two webinars are tailored specifically for workers and will focus on topics including eligibility requirements, job protections, premium amounts and timing, and the timing and portability of benefits. Participants will be provided a brief overview of the new law, followed by a Q&A session to address attendee questions. The remaining two webinars will focus on employer-related themes including an overview of the law's provisions, information on premium amounts, timing of benefits, wage reporting, and how to use the new online portal launching this winter for remitting payments. The session will conclude with a Q&A to address attendee questions.

Worker-Focused Webinars

Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave and Maine Paid Leave Coalition Webinar

Date & Time: October 15, 2024 | 5:00 PM-6:00 PM
To register for the webinar: https://mainestate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bw95wuqbSxek7j5ahV5B8g#/registration

Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave and Maine Immigrants' Rights Coalition Webinar

Date & Time: October 22, 2024 | 5:00 PM6:00 PM
To register for the webinar: https://mainestate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CstdyilKTzyGf1CAXOFHSg#/registration

Employer-Focused Webinars

Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave and National Federation of Independent Business in Maine (NFIB) Webinar

Date & Time: October 23, 2024 | 12:00 PM1:00 PM
To register for the webinar: https://mainestate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WNCtN8pXnrRZecww1EZ17JQ#/registration

Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave and Maine State Chamber of Commerce Webinar

Date & Time: October 16, 2024 | 12:00 PM1:00 PM
To register for the webinar: https://mainestate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_sLJcLzAiSGqBXN7ViUu7AA#/registration

"Our mission has been to make sure that every Mainer has access to a paid leave system that works for all," said Destie Hohman Sprague, Executive Director, Maine Womens Lobby and convener of the Paid Leave Coalition . "Working alongside state government, we were able to bring this vision to life, and look forward to helping the Maine Department of Labor provide workers with the information they need to understand their rights under the new law."

"At the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to ensuring that all business owners have the resources they need to navigate changes in laws and regulations," said Patrick Woodcock, President and CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce. "The introduction of the Paid Family and Medical Leave program brings significant changes for employers, and partnering with the Maine Department of Labor to deliver this educational series is critical in helping them prepare. By providing clear guidance and answering key questions, we're ensuring Maine's businesses stay informed and compliant, allowing them to continue supporting their employees while managing their operations effectively."

"It is vital that employers with at least one employee become familiar with key dates, responsibilities, and rights under this very impactful law," said David Clough, NFIB/Maine State Director. "NFIB is pleased to partner with Maine Paid Leave officials to present this important webinar that begins an education process for thousands of affected small employers."

"The Paid Family and Medical Leave program will undoubtedly advance cultural practices of communal living and intergenerational care for our immigrant families in Maine," said Mufalo Chitam, Executive Director of Maine Immigrants' Rights Coalition. "MIRC is proud to have supported the passage of this law."

Paid Family and Medical Leave at a Glance

Paid Family and Medical Leave became effective in October 2023, in accordance with Maine law. The Maine Department of Labor is responsible for the implementation of this new program. Maine is the 13th state to guarantee its citizens paid family and medical leave.

Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave offers eligible workers in the state the ability to take up to 12 weeks of paid time off in a benefit year for medical, family, or safe leave or leave related to a family members pending military deployment. Starting January 1, 2025, both employers and employees will begin contributing 1% of wages through payroll contributions to fund the program. Workers and employers will split the 1% premium equally (0.5% worker, 0.5% employer) for businesses with 15 or more employees. For businesses with 15 or fewer employees, the total premium will be 0.5%. Employers may voluntarily pay this on the employees behalf or deduct it from an employees paycheck. In addition to supporting workers, this program is designed to stabilize and increase workforce participation. Benefits are scheduled to go live on May 1, 2026.

NOTE: The public comment period on the revised version of the rules - https://www.maine.gov/labor/rulemaking/ will conclude today at 5:00 PM. After the public comment period ends, the Department will review and consider all comments submitted by the public, with the goal of adopting the final rule by January 1, 2025.

"The new law is something to celebrate. It's about providing financial security during some of life's most challenging moments. It will provide great support for all of us whose work keeps Maine working. It's not just a law; it's how we care and who we are as a state," noted Commissioner Fortman .

Comprehensive Outreach Plan to Educate Maines Workforce

In addition to the webinar series, The Maine Department of Labor will launch radio, digital and social media advertising in early October to raise awareness for the new law ahead of the rollout starting January 1, 2025. The campaign will expand to television advertising and streaming television advertising in January 2025 to continue educating workers and employers. MDOL is creating social media content and short explainer videos to help break down the law so that it's easy to understand. All materials will be available on the MDOL Paid Family and Medical Leave website - https://www.maine.gov/paidleave/ .

To get the most up-to-date information and access to resources, individuals and businesses are encouraged to sign up for MDOL's Paid Family and Medical Leave Get Notified List at https://www.maine.gov/paidleave .

A Message from our Friends at the American Red Cross

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:06:33 GMT

A message from our friends at the American Red Cross on Hurricane Helene

Dear Friends,

I know “crisis” isn’t the way anyone wants to start their week, but right now, millions across the Southeast are facing unimaginable devastation in the wake of Hurricane Helene. In this moment of extreme need, I’m reaching out to ask for your help.

Helene wasn’t just a storm—it was catastrophic. Ten states have been severely impacted, 32 million lives upended, and over 1,000 people remain missing. If you have friends or loved ones in the affected area, I hope they are safe and well.

As Mainers we have seen firsthand how quickly we mobilize in times of crisis. Right now, more than 850 trained Red Cross responders are on the ground, delivering critical aid—shelter, food, comfort, and essential resources to families whose lives have been torn apart. The magnitude of need is truly unprecedented, and our response must be equally momentous.

Last year, when our own communities in Maine faced disasters—like the winter storms, and tragedy in Lewiston—people from across the country came to our aid. Now, it’s our turn to help.

Please take a moment to watch this video of one family’s experience after hurricane Helene story HERE

This is where you can help make a powerful impact. A financial gift today is the quickest and most effective way to get lifesaving help to those in dire need. Your support will ensure that our responders—including 25 volunteers from our local region—can provide food, shelter, emergency supplies, and financial assistance to those who need it most.

This is what the Red Cross is about: neighbors helping neighbors in times of need. Our dedicated volunteers are collectively mobilizing support from across Main. If you’re able, please join us in making a gift to Hurricane Helene . If you would like to talk about this response or other ways to help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. Thank you for your compassion and generosity.

Together in service,

Sophie Piconi

Executive Director – Central and Mid Coast Maine

American Red Cross Northern New England Region

Phone: 207.800.5416

Email: sophia.piconi@redcross.org