MESSAGE FROM THE CHAMBER:

The southern Midcoast region has produced some notable figures in the history of our region, our state and our nation. One such leader is Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

Soldier, statesman, educator and businessman, Joshua L. Chamberlain’s birthday was yesterday, Sept. 8. Many places associated with him are in Brunswick and they make history come alive.

Take a walking tour in your own backyard. Start out with a bit of background and research by visiting the Pejepscot Historical Society on Park Row. Its mission is to preserve the heritage of Brunswick, Harpswell and Topsham. They own and operate the Joshua L. Chamberlain House Museum, a most distinctive home (architecturally) located on Maine Street. Walk through the rooms where Chamberlain and his family lived and worked. Learn how he enlisted in the U.S. Army and had quite the Civil War career — 24 battles — and is especially remembered for holding his ground during a rebel attack at Little Round Top in the Battle of Gettysburg. Gen. Grant chose him to receive the formal surrender of Gen. Lee which ended the Civil War. After the Civil War Chamberlain served four terms as governor of Maine.

Across the street from his home is another historic landmark, the First Parish Church, where Chamberlain worshipped. His father-in-law was the longtime minister. Also across is a statue of Chamberlain on the edge of the campus of Bowdoin College where Chamberlain was a student, professor and president of the college.

And further down Bath Road, you’ll come to Pine Grove Cemetery, the final resting place of this exceptional leader.

It’s also time to start considering those individuals to nominate for the Joshua L. Chamberlain award which will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting. Nominees are recognized for their outstanding dedication and service toward the best possible military-community relationship in our region. The award was first given in 1976.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

· Southern Midcoast Maine Chamber, Brunswick Downtown Association and the town of Brunswick are providing an opportunity for Brunswick residents, Brunswick business owners and Brunswick property owners to learn more about the Solarize Brunswick program. The presentation is Sept. 16, 9-10 a.m., at the Community Room, 8 Venture Ave., Brunswick Landing.

· The chamber’s young professional group, Midcoast Edge, will present a conflict resolution workshop on Sept. 17, 2:30- 5:30 p.m., at Maine Forest Yurts, 430 Auburn Pownal Road, Durham. Conflict resolution and its complexities will be discussed, resulting in participants learning when and how to intervene, and how to prevent some conflict.

· Look forward to a fun end of summer at Oktoberfest Maine on Saturday, Sept. 19. From noon to 7 p.m. at the Topsham Fairgrounds, you’ll be treated to food and beer (this is a 21 years and older event), German music, local bands, games and contests. Buy tickets online for only $10/person at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1592065 ($15/person on day of event).

· Chamber After Hours is Sept. 23, 5-7 p.m. It is hosted by Day’s Jewelers at their new location at the Topsham Fair Mall. Make new connections, gather business leads and reconnect with business owners.

· Chris Fogg, CEO of Maine Tourism Association, is the featured speaker at the Sept. 30 Chamber Regional Luncheon. The event (11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.) includes networking, buffet lunch and presentation at The Daniel, 10 Water St., Brunswick. Thank you to our sponsors: Mechanics Savings Bank, Mid Coast Health Services, RE/MAX Riverside, and Brunswick Hotel and Tavern.

OUR MEMBERS:

Welcome to Yankee Lanes, a family owned and local bowling center with 32 lanes and Bumpa’s Bar and Grille. We also welcome Liberty Mutual Insurance representative Brian Enos. Check out the chamber’s website at www.midcoastmaine.com to find a service or product you are looking for.