3 nearly vital things those in the Midcoast should know | Column
Bath‑Brunswick‑Topsham Chamber to Release Candidate Interviews, Promote Tree‑Fest and Share Heating Resources
The Mid‑Coast Maine Chamber of Commerce is making a push to give residents more information about their local political options, holiday activities and essential winter support services. Executive Director Cory King announced a trio of community‑focused initiatives that will roll out over the coming weeks.
23 State‑House Candidates Offer Video Interviews
Starting last week the Chamber hosted a series of recorded Zoom interviews with every candidate running for the Maine State House from the 16‑community Bath‑Brunswick‑Topsham region. Each interview lasts about twelve minutes and follows the same six questions so voters can compare positions side by side. The Chamber will release all completed videos on Friday, Oct. 23, and they will be available on the Chamber’s YouTube channel as well as on its website and Facebook page. Candidates who have not yet agreed to be filmed are asked to respond promptly, while those who have completed their interview can view their own footage until the Friday cut‑off.
Merrymeeting Tree Fest Heads to the Fourth Week
The region’s beloved Merrymeeting Tree Fest, a six‑day holiday celebration that takes place over two weekends, is only a month away. According to Chamber updates, half of the tree‑sponsorship spaces remain available—up to 55 trees can still be pledged by individuals or businesses. Non‑profit groups are encouraged to become wreath sponsors, and the event’s presenting sponsor is Hammond Lumber Co., with additional sponsorship levels open to the community.
Volunteers will be needed for up to 11 two‑hour shifts, each shift valued at a $30 donation toward a nonprofit of the volunteer’s choice. Five to seven entertainer slots are still open, and interested performers can email the Chamber for details. All event information and registration opportunities can be found on the Merrymeeting Tree Fest page at MidcoastMaine.com, with daily updates to follow on the event’s Facebook page.
Heating Resources for the Upcoming Season
With winter heating costs expected to rise sharply, the Chamber has been partnering with United Way of Mid‑Coast Maine to share a 2026‑2027 Heating Resource Guide. The guide, available on the United Way website under “Get Help,” lists local organizations that can assist with heating needs. It also provides phone numbers for community‑specific resource directories—housing, food, clothing—and a public transportation guide.
The Chamber reminds readers that 211, a 24‑hour call center, can connect residents to local services. Business owners are encouraged to post the guide in breakrooms or distribute flyers so neighbors can find help quickly.
“We want to ensure everyone in our community has the information and resources they need,” said Cory King, Executive Director of the Bath‑Brunswick‑Topsham Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber’s outreach is part of a broader effort to keep Mid‑Coast residents informed and connected as the region approaches a busy holiday season and an increasingly demanding winter.
