Heart of Ellsworth (H of E) in partnership with DownEast Acadia Regional Tourism will host a Community Conversation on Outdoor Recreation Assets and Needs of DownEast Acadia. Carolann Ouellette, Director of the recently created Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, will share her role and how the Office will leverage Maine’s assets and outdoor recreation heritage to grow its outdoor recreation economy and brand. The discussion will help identify gaps, opportunities, assets, experiences, and partnerships related to outdoor recreation in the Ellsworth area.  According to Oulette, “The information gathered at a variety of public forums in the State will help direct the Office of Outdoor Recreation work and ultimately guide the development of a strategic plan for this new office.”

The Heart of Ellsworth and the City of Ellsworth are excited to announce a partnership in hosting the April 30th Community Conversation on Downtown Living! The conversation will highlight how downtown living fits into the City’s economic development strategy. Guest presenters include Chris Closs and Sarah Hansen of Maine Preservation, who will address opportunities for state and federal historic preservation tax credits as a resource in renovating second story living space. Local developers Abe and Heather Furth will share a case study of their experience renovating historic downtown buildings in the greater Bangor metro area. This will be an informative event for our downtown building/business owners and the community. Please join us in learning more about making our downtown a vibrant place to live!

Join Heart of Ellsworth for a lively discussion with the four candidates running for Ellsworth City Council - David Burks, Heather Grindle, Gene Lyons, and John Phillips. Stephen Fay of the Ellsworth American will be this year's moderator to field questions from the audience.