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The Love Local Issue F E B R UA RY 2 02 4

GET YOUR GARAGE IN GEAR. GET YOUR GARAGE IN GEAR. As the leaders in garage organization, we provide customized solutions to create a functional and beautifully organized garage space. Let us exceed your expectations and help you As the leaders in garage we provide customized solutions to in create functional transform your garage.organization, Choose PremierGarage and Get Your Garage Gearatoday! and beautifully organized garage space. Let us exceed your expectations and help you transform your garage. Choose PremierGarage and Get Your Garage in Gear today!

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© 2023 Organized Spaces, LLC. All rights reserved. PremierGarage® is a registered trademark of Organized Spaces, LLC and Home Franchise Concepts brands. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Styles may vary by location. © 2023 Organized Spaces, LLC. All rights reserved. PremierGarage® is a registered trademark of Organized Spaces, LLC and Home Franchise Concepts brands. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Styles may vary by location.

Discover Discover Customized Customized Organization Organization Solutions Solutions for for Every Every Space Space We’ll unveil the art of customizing every space in your home to match your unique lifestyle. We’ll unveil the art of customizing every space in your home to match your unique lifestyle. From closets to pantries, laundry rooms to home ofﬁces and everything in between, From closets to pantries, laundry rooms to home ofﬁces and everything in between, our customized solutions optimize your spaces beautifully. Enjoy your Home, Organized. our customized solutions optimize your spaces beautifully. Enjoy your Home, Organized.

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Home Ofﬁces Home Ofﬁces

Pantries Pantries

Laundry Rooms Laundry Rooms

Wall Beds Wall Beds

© 2023 Organized Spaces, LLC. All rights reserved. The Tailored Closet™ is a trademark of Organized Spaces, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Styles may vary by location. © 2023 Organized Spaces, LLC. All rights reserved. The Tailored Closet™ is a trademark of Organized Spaces, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Styles may vary by location.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Portland: A Love Affair I often catch myself looking back wistfully at the days of Portland gone by. I’ll admit that even after almost 25 years of living in this city, I still get nostalgic about the Portland I first fell in love with— brunches at Cafe Uffa, Thursday night reggae at Boru, and dinners at Walter’s on Exchange St. A lot has changed. It’s easy for us longtime Portlanders to wax sentimental about “the good old days,” especially when modern-day Portland seems perpetually plagued by housing issues, labor shortages, and other post-Covid challenges. But what about the here and now? There’s more than ever to love about the city that swept me off my feet all those years ago, and we’re bringing you lots of local love for our February issue. Take Dean’s Sweets: one taste and it’s hard not to fall for this Portland institution and its decadent treats, but it’s not just the chocolate that sends me. Dean and his partner Kristin are the loveliest people who pour their heart and soul into every one of the handmade chocolates they’ve been serving up to Portland since 2004. We’re also bringing you a chat with Chris Davis, Portland-based realtor, content creator, and all-around enthusiastic Mainer who not only loves selling homes here, but also takes the time to show his followers his favorite corners of Maine, what makes them special, and how to make the most out of living in greater Portland and beyond. So, yes, Portland, I’m still captivated by you and everything you are. You’ve had me since day one, and even though we’ve grown older and things seem different now, you’ve always been there for me, and I promise I’ll always be here for you.

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Emily Harradon emily.harradon@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Rebecca Abramson rebecca.abramson@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rose Heithoff, Rebecca Starr, Beth Babcock C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Lauren Lear

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

E M I LY H A R R A D O N , P U B L I S H E R @PORTLAND.CITYLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Portland City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Portland area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/PORTLANDME

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Portland City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

32 14

Featured

22 28 32 6

22 On the Cover

Thoroughly Modern Maker

Ceramica Co. founder Hannah Hazel on pottery, running a business, and finding inspiration across Maine

Dean’s Sweets co-owners Dean and Kristin Bingham prepare for Valentine’s Day at their Fore Street chocolate shop.

Book Lovers

Nine new reads recommended by Portland bibliophiles

Living the American Dream

The content creator slash realtor sharing his love of Maine with the nation

A Taste of the Sweet Life

Dean’s Sweets co-owners Kristin and Dean Bingham walk us through the creation of their handcrafted truffles

Photography: Lauren Lear

Departments 4

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

City List

Maker’s Studio ARTS + CULTURE

Our Town FOOD + BEVERAGE

Locally Sourced LIFE + CULTURE

Local Limelight REAL ESTATE

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Events

Realty Report REAL ESTATE

How To ARTS + CULTURE

FEBRUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

SARAH MCCULLOUGH

@EMILYROGANPHOTOGRAPHY

5 @WCYYMAINE

@CHRISSELLSMAINE

@THESPOONDRIFTKITCHEN

@LAURYNSOPHIA

1: Vocalists Leon Griesbach and Susie Pepper on stage at the PSO’s Magic of Christmas concert. 2: Members of The Recording Club at The Studio Portland. 3: Maine Celtics player Jordan Walsh and Mark Curdo pose during December’s Markathon 15 on WCYY. 4: The Places In Maine team and their spouses at Two Lights Settlement Services’ holiday party. 5: Chef Eva Mrak of Spoondrift Kitchen leads an at-home cooking class. 6: Spencer and the Walrus and friends perform at the annual Beatles Night at State Theatre. 7: Maggie Knowles and Hannah Martin at Day’s Jewelers Sparkling Soiree at the Francis.

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ P O R T L A N D . C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

HEALTH AND CARE. TWO HALVES OF A WHOLE. From your daily decisions to seeking care from trusted experts, we’re helping you become your healthiest self.

HEALTH AND CARE IN HARMONY mainehealth.org

FEBRUARY 2024

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Reside in Maine Joins COMPASS Real Estate Katie Hogan, principal and owner of Reside In Maine, and her agents, Chelsea Roy and Norma Bramley, have joined COMPASS Real Estate as The Reside Group. “We are honored to be a part of this remarkable company as they expand into the Greater Portland and Mid-Coast markets of Maine. You know you are a part of something special when you receive a personal call from Robert Reffkin, founder and CEO, welcoming you to the company!” says Hogan.

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Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ PORTLANDME

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

visit PORTLANDSYMPHONY.ORG

Register for the 17th Annual Tri for a Cure Now’s your opportunity to swim, bike, and run to support Maine Cancer Foundation (MCF) and cancer-fighting efforts in our state. Register as an individual or as part of a team of up to three people. Each participant is required to raise $500 by Thursday, July 11 at 5pm. All money raised supports MCF and stays in Maine to fund cancer-fighting initiatives. Registration is available on a first-come, firstserved basis at triforacure.org.

Upgrade Your Living Space with Centerline Design & Build Need wallpaper for your powder room, a new accent chair for your living room, or even a built-in buffet for your dining room? Centerline Design and Build doesn’t just handle the big stuff—they’re here to help with small interior design needs, too. Visit the Yarmouth studio to learn about custom soft goods, reupholstery, managed installation, and more. centerlinedesignme.com

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BROADWAY BY REQUEST SATURDAY, MARCH 9 AT 7:30 PM | SUNDAY, MARCH 10 AT 2:30 PM

Filippo Ciabatti, guest conductor Teri Hansen, vocals Destan Owens, vocals

HANSEN

Experience some of Broadway’s most beloved favorites chosen by popular vote, including songs from Wicked, Mamma Mia, RENT, Phantom of the Opera, and more!

TICKETS STARTING AT $28 * *plus applicable service fees FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

PICKS FOR

VE L OCAL B U

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

CITY LIST

the

R OU

Jeweler D. Cole Jewelers dcolejewelers.com | 207.772.5119 Willa Wirth willawirth.com | 207.232.5328 Michelle Estell Jewelry etsy.com/shop/michelleestell Folia foliajewelry.com | 207.761.4432 Springer's Jewelers springersjewelers.com | 207.772.5404

Day Spa Health Resonates healthresonates.com | 207.200.3070 Beauty Mark beautymarkco.com | 207.808.5999

Want to suggest a monthly pick? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/PORTL ANDME

C I T Y LIST

Nine Stones Spa ninestonesspa.com | 207.772.8480 Adeline Wellness Spa adelinespa.com | 207.517.8877 The Spa at The Francis thefrancismaine.com/spa | 207.772.7485

18 EXCHANGE STREET WWW.PAPIPORTLAND.COM

CERAMICA CO. FOUNDER HANNAH HAZEL ON POTTERY, RUNNING A BUSINESS, AND FINDING INSPIRATION ACROSS MAINE

Thoroughly

Modern Maker ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAY SIKES PHOTO AND KARLEE NOYES PHOTOGRAPHY

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

HOW DID YOU GET INTO CERAMICS INITIALLY?

I was going to school for business but I needed an art elective, so I enrolled in a pottery class and felt like I was finally getting the hang of it at the end of the semester. It’s such a foreign art, and the only way to get better is to practice, so I went back to Portland Pottery and took another class. I started working as a studio tech mixing glazes, loading and unloading the kilns, and helping teach beginner classes. In exchange, I got to use their wheels and kilns and create my own stuff on the side. It was a really great way to get my foot in the door without having the huge overhead because ceramics can be a tough hobby to get into.

WHAT DOES YOUR CURRENT SETUP LOOK LIKE?

I slowly built out a home studio starting with a wheel that I bought a few months after working as a studio tech. I put it in a little room in my house and practiced throwing every day. I began selling my work at farmers markets and art walks, partly to make a little cash but also to see if it was something I could turn into a business. Eventually, I was able to save up enough for a kiln. CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

WHAT DOES AN AVERAGE DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

I have several wholesale accounts, so I typically start by figuring out what orders I have to fulfill and how my inventory is looking. Once I assess what I need to make for the week, I’ll go down to my basement studio and weigh out pieces of clay, sit down at the wheel and throw for an hour or two, take a break and package some orders, load and unload the kiln, and grab more supplies at Portland Pottery. A typical day is usually filled with production, but there are lots of smaller tasks like taking new photos for my website, sending emails, and making deliveries.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

It’s kind of hard to pinpoint, but whenever I’m outside, in the woods, or hiking by the beach, I feel rejuvenated. It really helps me connect with the essence of the universe and the earth. Seeing different textures and exploring nature’s color palette is always super inspiring. I’m also inspired by the whole ceramics process, how it’s so intricate and precise with the sciences of the glazes and temperatures of firing the clay. It’s so cool to take a piece of mud from the ground and form it into a functional piece that someone can use every single day for years.

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR AESTHETIC?

I’ve always leaned minimalist. I use a sandstone speckled clay that I think is so timeless, and the glazes I use are calm and modern shades of white and blush that can fit into any sort of home. My whole mindset behind ceramics is making them so that they can be used every day and be loved and cared for.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT LIVING AND WORKING IN MAINE?

I’m born and raised in Maine, and as I’ve gotten older, I feel more hometown pride. Maine is such an incredible place and people are finally becoming more aware of its beauty. It’s so cool to see people from different states coming in and seeing how incredible Portland is, how supportive it is of small businesses, and how many driven, talented people there are here doing their best. And then you walk just outside the city and you have the oceans, the mountains, skiing, lakes—everything you could ever need.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?

I’ve started to outgrow the home studio in my basement, and I really want a larger studio and retail shop where I can sell my pottery in person and offer oneon-one classes and workshops. Ceramics in particular is a medium that people need to see and feel—people like to pick up a mug and feel the handle and weight before committing to a purchase. See more of Hannah’s work at ceramicaco.com or on Instagram at @ceramica_co.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

FI ND T HE S E PER FOR MA N C ES AND M ORE AT PORTLANDOVATIONS .O RG

Martha Redbone Roots Project THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024 l 7 PM FIRST PARISH CHURCH, PORTLAND

CO-PRESENTED BY STATE THEATRE

Zlata Chochieva, piano

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024 l 3 PM HANNAFORD HALL, USM CAMPUS, PORTLAND

Sasha Velour’s The Big Reveal Live Show!

Johnny Cash: The Official Concert Experience

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024 l 7 PM STATE THEATRE, PORTLAND

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2024 l 7 PM MERRILL AUDITORIUM, PORTLAND

Sirocco: Manchester Collective & Abel Selaocoe

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2024 l 7 PM STATE THEATRE, PORTLAND

TUESDAY, APRIL 9, 2024 l 7 PM MERRILL AUDITORIUM, PORTLAND

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2024 l 7 PM MERRILL AUDITORIUM, PORTLAND

BROADWAY NATIONAL TOUR

JUST ADDED!

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2024 l 8 PM SATURDAY, APRIL 13, 2024 l 1 PM & 7 PM MERRILL AUDITORIUM, PORTLAND

THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2024 l 7 PM MERRILL AUDITORIUM, PORTLAND

Jesus Christ Superstar

An Evening with Leslie Odom, Jr.

FULL SEASON ON SALE NOW FOR TICKETS & MEMBERSHIP • Online at portlandovations.org • By phone by calling 207.842.0800 • In person by visiting the PortTIX Box Office at 20 Myrtle Street in Portland YO U R N O NPR O FIT DE STINATION FOR PERFORM IN G ARTS SINCE 1931

Portland Trust Company Let’s start with you

PORTLAND TRUST COMPANY Let’s start with you.

Amelia Dow, CEO

IS YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISOR OUT-OF-STATE OR OUT-OF-TOUCH? LOOKING FOR A BETTER SOLUTION? Whether you’re new to town or have lived here your whole life, you know Portland is special. It’s more than a place of business for us, it’s our home, our way of life, and even in our name. We’re friends and neighbors here, and we believe working with your financial advisor should be as simple as walking next door to borrow some sugar or eggs. We’ve created a home for our clients and their assets—managing their money, their lives, and their futures—with peace of mind knowing that we are a fully regulated financial institution right down the road. Together, we embrace our Maine way of life.

Portland Trust Company is a Maine non-depository trust company focused exclusively on wealth management and fiduciary services. We work with individuals and families, nonprofits, and local governments. We do everything the giant financial services organizations do while providing local and accessible attention to your specific needs.

FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES, WE SPECIALIZE IN: Trust and Trustee Services ◆ Investments ◆ Retirement ◆ Private Banking ◆ and more

Visit PortlandTrust.com for the way wealth should be. ( 207) 558- 6220 ◆ www. p or tl a n d tr u st .com ◆ Two C ity Ce n te r, Po r t la n d, M E 0 41 01 ◆ Le t ’s s t a r t w it h you.

Valentine’s Date Night CHECK OUT OUR READERS’ FAVORITE ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS AROUND TOWN

Yo s ak u “Yosaku has always been my favorite date spot. It’s warm and comfortable with nooks and private areas, the food is consistently excellent, and the service is always on point.” -@madamemojo

Via Ve cchia “We love V V for date night! It has the perfect trifecta: a cozy, warm atmosphere, beautiful food, and an excellent wine list.” -@kimmacumberinteriors

Sol o Ita l i ano “Amazing true Italian cuisine and fabulous staff. I love to sit at the full-service bar on a date night—the bartenders are so talented and always recommend a drink I love.” -@ellienash15

Ho n ey Paw

Dav id’s Re staurant

“My husband and I often head to Honey Paw for the smoked pork and crab Mee Goreng noodles and some lobster toast. It’s the perfect way to celebrate our love for each other and our adoration for our home state shellfish mascots.” -@hogfishme

“David’s is my go-to special occasion spot. From a welcoming smile at the door and a velvety cocktail all the way to the decadent desserts, dinner here is the perfect way to spend a night with my love.” -@kitnbub1

O UR TOWN | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

Move with us.

Foreside Tavern

EXI BUC

T 10

KNA

Starbucks

The Form Lab is making the move to Falmouth in early 2024.

295 OA

More space, more classes, more trainers, more movement. Visit us now at our location in Portland, or to find out more about our new location, offerings, or membership presale, visit formlabfitness.com/falmouth

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OUR FORMULA

Personal Training

Group Classes

Advanced Barbell

207.742.8359

Kinstretch

Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST)

@theformlab

Massage Therapy

Nutrition Coaching & Seminars

formlabfitness.com

Yoga Classes

BOOK

LOV ER S Nine new reads recommended by Portland bibliophiles ARTICLE BY ROSE HEITHOFF, BETH BABCOCK, AND REBECCA STARR

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L I F E + CU LT U RE

B A C K C O V E B O O K S

CR ANKY BY PH UC T R A N Find out how kind friends and honesty help one cranky truck cool down in this humorous new picture book series about big trucks, big feelings, and even bigger friendships. (Release date: February 6)

NEXT LEVEL: A H Y M N IN GR ATIT UDE FOR OUR DIFFER ENCES BY SA M A R A C OL E D OYON Told from the loving perspective of a mother of a child with autism, Next Level shows the full humanity of people who move through the world and communicate in their own unique, complete, and powerful way. (Release date: April 2024)

THE ISLA NDERS BY LE W IS ROBINSON Follow Walt McNamara, a standout hockey goalie and son of the custodian at a New England prep school, as he wrecks his promising athletic career in spectacular fashion during the final throes of his parents’ failing marriage. After he accepts an intriguing invitation to join the inaugural class of a leadership program for at-risk youth, Walt and his cohort are forced into survival mode as they gradually realize why, and for what, they were chosen. (Release date: September 2024) CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

B O O K S N O N E S U C H

T H E WA G E R : A TA L E OF SH I P W R E C K , M U T I N Y, A N D M U R D E R B Y D AV I D G R A N N An engaging, exciting nonfiction book that reads like a novel. The book tells the story of a shipwreck in the 1500s that had the crew marooned for months, if not years.

T H E C O V E N A N T O F WA T E R BY A BR A H A M V ERGHESE

THE FOURTH WING BY R E C E C C A YA R RO S

A 750-page page turner. The story is riveting and his writing is impeccable. It’s one of our favorite books of 2023! Verghese won the 2023 Writer of the World award and this novel was selected as one of Oprah’s 2023 book club picks.

How can you not love a book with elaborate world-building and fire-breathing dragons? This story, the first installment in the Empyrean series, has strong female characters and is very well written.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L I F E + CU LT U RE

P O R T L A N D P U B L I C L I B R A R Y

WA N D E R I N G S T A R S BY TOM M Y OR A NGE Tommy Orange returns with a novel following the descendants of a young man who survived the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864. This is a compelling story about intergenerational trauma and reckoning with one’s history. (Release date: February 27)

N E A R LY A L L T H E M E N I N L AG OS A R E M A D BY DA M I L A R E K U K U After becoming a smash hit in her home country of Nigeria, actor Damilare Kuku’s collection of stories is on its way to the United States. Follow twelve women as they experience the highs and lows of dating, marriage, and finding love in unexpected places. (Release date: March 19)

HOW TO R E A D A BOOK BY MON IC A WOOD Mark your calendars for Monica Wood’s latest novel, where three Mainers whose stories have a tragic connection coincidentally meet in a Portland bookstore. This one’s sure to be a big hit! (Release date: June 11)

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

prepared meals private cooking classes dinner parties & events spoondriftkitchen.com Darren Setlow Photography

1 FREE WEEK

Ready to commit to a stronger, healthier you? We have a ride for you. To begin, just clip in!

Dean’s Sweets

EXQUISITE HAND-DIPPED CHOCOLATES

CYCLEBAR PORTLAND VOTED PORTLAND'S BEST CYCLING STUDIO

82 HANOVER STREET | 207-200-4002 | @CYCLEBARPORTLAND

www.deanssweets.com | 207.899.366 4 Tw o L o c a t i o n s | 4 7 5 Fo r e S t | 5 4 C o v e S t | Po r tl a nd

Self Love is in the air at Health Resonates! Through February 15th, purchase a $150 Gift Card for $125, $300 for $250, and $800 for $700. This can be purchased for personal use or as a gift to a loved one.

773 Congress St, Portland, Maine 04102 // 207.200.3070 www.healthresonates.com V @Visithealthresonates

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

Living the American Dream THE CONTENT CREATOR SLASH REALTOR SHARING HIS LOVE OF MAINE WITH THE NATION Businessman, actor, and Mainer Matthew Delamater poses with Chris Davis during a December 2023 interview.

Late last year, local real estate agent Chris Davis announced that he was selected as the new host and production manager of the Emmy-nominated television series The American Dream, which was expanding into Maine. We sat down with Chris to learn more about his journey from aspiring actor to television host and what he believes makes the Pine Tree State unique.

Chris Davis HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN CONTENT CREATION? WHAT ABOUT REAL ESTATE? Life has an amazing way of putting you on a journey when you just let it. I went to school to be an actor and moved to New York, then came back to Maine because I didn’t love the city lifestyle and needed to find a job to support my family. I knew I had the personality and confidence for sales, but it took me five different jobs to arrive at real estate. I always felt that I had something to offer, and I never knew what it was until I did some training and realized that I had a brand I wanted to put out there. When I worked for other companies, it felt like that brand was muffled. Getting into real estate, I realized I had a great way of engaging with my audience through content creation on social media.

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHRIS DAVIS

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | REAL E STAT E

Chris and his Selling Maine cohosts.

TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE AMERICAN DREAM: SELLING MAINE — WHAT IS IT, AND HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED? It’s a lifestyle and culture slash real estate show centered around a local community—in this case, the state of Maine— where we show people on a national level what Maine is all about. There are four of us who make up the show and we each produce our own segment, so it gives audiences a really fun way to see four different personalities, four different ways of producing and hosting, and ultimately four different listings throughout Maine on each episode. Right now, it's streaming on Amazon, Apple TV, Hulu, and Roku. I got involved when another agent in my market named Stacy Salvo reached out to me. She had been approached by someone in Colorado who wanted to expand the brand into Maine, and she recommended that I set up an interview because she knew about my storytelling background. I was invited to join the show and filmed my first episode in Bridgton in December, which premiered last month. WHAT DO YOU THINK IS SPECIAL ABOUT LIVING IN MAINE? Maine has this intrinsic quality that allows people to be aspirational in our dreams and pragmatic in our approach. I think it's our state's storied past and beauty that allows us all to dream the same dream. We strive to be what we see around us and we strive to enjoy Maine in every corner. I find those moments of enjoying the state's natural beauty are the times I get incredibly inspired for a new business idea, a new marketing idea, or a new venture that will help continue to support my family. If you have a listing you’d like featured on the show, contact Chris at 207-756-2442 or email chris@placesinmaine.com.

“Maine has this intrinsic quality that allows people to be aspirational in our dreams and pragmatic in our approach.” FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

Move Better, Feel Better Scarborough StretchLab owner John Smart explains the benefits of getting stretched ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF STRETCHLAB

WHAT IS ASSISTED STRETCHING?

We use a technique called physical neuromuscular facilitation, or PNF, to stretch people one-on-one using a tension scale of zero to ten. Zero is when you’re sitting there and can’t feel anything, and ten is when it feels like your arm is going to pop out of your socket. Ideally, we want you at a five.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Let's say that our trained flexologists are stretching your hamstring. We'll hold you in a stretch for seven or eight counts, then ask you to press back against the flex just for three counts. You'll take a breath in and, as you exhale, you go even deeper. We're actually tricking your brain into letting you stretch further.

WHO IS IT FOR?

The beauty of assisted stretching is that it’s for everyone, from your 14-year-old student-athlete to your 92-year-old grandma looking for more mobility. We work in tandem with modalities like acupuncture, chiropractors, and physical therapists, but we’re not acute care, so if you have an injury we require a note from your doctor to make sure you’re medically cleared. Some people even prefer us to physical therapy because we do all the work!

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

Active Chiropractic is proud to be Maine’s first and only clinical provider of SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Technology Softwave stimulates a cellular response that activates the body’s natural healing process. Patients feel the transformative benefits including: Decreased pain Better range of motion Decreased inflammation Activation of native stem cells Treatments do not involve needles and are a fraction of the cost of other stem cell modalities. If you’re struggling with chronic pain or inflammation, SoftWave could be for you.

Call Active Chiropractic to book a $49 Discovery Day.

WWW.ACTIVECHIROPRACTOR.COM // 207-571-8028 // 331 North St, Saco, Maine 04072

Peace on the Inside, Joy on the Outside

OPEN

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7 DAYS

+ Feel more calm, energized and less stressed.

PER WEEK FEATURING Heated Flow · Yin · Deep Stretch · Restorative Prenatal · Beginners · Nidra Summer Outdoor Yoga Classes Livestreamed Classes

(with extensive Virtual Replay Library)

207.210.6525 GreenerPosturesYoga.com Two Spacious Studio Locations 740 Broadway St. · South Portland 65 Gray Rd. · Falmouth

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

A Taste of the Sweet Life DEAN’S SWEETS CO-OWNERS KRISTIN AND DEAN BINGHAM WALK US THROUGH THE CREATION OF THEIR HANDCRAFTED TRUFFLES

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN LEAR Dean and Kristin Bingham know a thing or two about partnership. At their flagship chocolate shop on Fore Street, you’ll find Dean, a former architect turned chocolatier, doing the physical work of creating confections while Kristin, as Dean so eloquently puts it, "does everything else." Though their journey to chocolate followed a winding path—at one point, the couple considered diving into the world of ice cream—Dean’s Sweets has been steadily growing since its inception in 2008. "I started making truffles and giving them away, and people told me I should sell them. At some point, you foolishly believe them, and that's how we got here," he explains.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Step one is to pour heated cream over chocolate to make the "truffle guts."

Dean uses a guitar cutter to slice the truffle insides into rectangles. After flavoring is added, the "truffle guts" dry in a pan for 24 to 48 hours.

At Dean's Sweets, each confection is made from the finest imported chocolate with no preservatives, gluten, or nuts. In addition to delectable truffles handcrafted with local ingredients like Maine sea salt, blueberries, maple syrup, butter, and cream, the shop offers three flavors of hot chocolate mix, award-winning hot fudge and caramel sauces, buttercreams CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

and caramels, seasonal treats, and monthly subscription boxes. To celebrate the shop's 20th anniversary this year, Dean and Kristin have developed a collection of new, never-offered-before chocolate confections to be sold in stores and via subscription. “Even after 20 years of chocolate-making, we don’t tire of exceptionally good combinations,” Dean says.

After the "truffle guts" are hand-rolled, they are left to dry so that any water, which could cause mold, evaporates from the surface.

Dean hand-dips thousands of truffles each year.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Minimal decoration is added, allowing the quality of the chocolate to shine.

The heart-shaped gift box is a perfect Valentine's Day treat.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

FEBRUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

A LL M ON T H LO N G

Artists Showcase Greenhut Galleries Established in 1977, Greenhut Galleries is Portland, Maine’s oldest year-round gallery. Located in the heart of the historic Old Port district, the gallery exhibits the work of Maine’s finest contemporary artists. greenhutgalleries.com F EB RUA RY 2 N D

Love Gala 2024 Brick South at Thompson’s Point The Center for Grieving Children’s annual Love Gala is the organization’s largest fundraising event, mobilizing crucial funding in support of grieving children and families within the community. The special evening includes both an online and live auction. Consider the Sponsor a Child opportunity to ensure Center families continue to have access to services and programs at no cost. cgcmaine.org/event/lovegala2024 F EB RUA RY 4 T H A N D 5TH

Portland 207 Day Scavenger Hunt Celebrate your love for the 207 with a self-guided, virtual scavenger hunt designed to guide Portlanders out of winter hibernation to explore, shop, eat, drink, and think like a Mainer. More than 400 explorers joined in 2022, but there is no limit—come one, come all! Register at 207day.portlandmaine.com. CONTINUED >

EVE N TS

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www.treeoflifechiros.com | 207-536-0426 73 Bell St, Portland, ME vb@treeoflifechiros FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

events

CONTINUED FEBR UARY 9 TH

Charity Comedy Night Rising Tide Brewing Company | 6:30 PM Join host Mark Moccia along with comedians Bryan Muenzer, Jennifer Dwyer, Michelle Lisi, Ian MacDonald, and Ian Rice for a hilarious night of fun and drinks at Rising Tide Brewing Company. This one-night event supports Portland Trails and their mission of transforming Greater Portland into a healthier and better-connected community through a 70+ mile trail network. tinyurl.com/charity-comedy-night FEBR UARY 15TH

Ryan Adams Artist-in-Residence Lecture USM’s McGoldrick Center for Career & Student Success | 6:00 PM Throughout the spring semester, artist Ryan Adams will work with USM students to design and paint a mural on campus. During this lecture, the first event of Adams’s residency, he will discuss his artistic practice, influences, and projects with the university. Join the University of Southern Maine Art Gallery for Ryan’s lecture and a subsequent Q&A. usm.maine.edu/calendar-of-events/ event/artist-in-residence-lecture FEBR UARY 18TH

Small Bites Showdown The Cheese Shop of Portland | 6:00 PM

$49 Intro session! Call or email us to book today

207-509-2860 oakhill@stretchlab.com 246 Route1 Scarborough 38

EVE N TS

Prepare for a full-on fromage throwdown in a no-holds-barred evening of cheese-focused small bites with the expert cheesemongers at The Cheese Shop of Portland. $5 from every ticket sold will be donated to Full Plates, Full Potential. Tickets include admission, a cheese course, accompaniments, and beverage pairings for one. tinyurl.com/small-bites-showdown

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The largest independent wine retailer in Maine.

The Best selections of wines with outstanding customer service and knowledge. Wines for every day to special occasions.

Located right in the heart of the Old Port.

223 Commercial Street, Portland, ME | 207-772-9463 oldportwineandcigar.com bOld Port Wine voldportwine

GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K SHOP LOCAL YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N FOR LOCAL LIVING

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N P O R T L A N D .

NEIGHBORHOOD

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

B AT H S

58 Tide Mill Rd

$795,000

100%

148

160 Lester Dr

$539,900

$650,000

120%

368 Brighton Ave

$599,000

$675,000

113%

12 Bond St

$749,900

$720,000

96%

44 Bowdoin St

$2,875,000

$2,845,000

99%

33 Morning St #2

$755,000

100%

48 Montreal St

$795,000

$905,000

114%

113 Newbury St

$995,000

100%

158

42 Taylor St

$1,300,000

100%

57 Coyle St

$1,795,000

$1,700,000

95%

All info for Realty Report obtained from our local MLS (Maine Listings MREIS) for period November - December 2023

YOUR KEY TO THE LOCAL REAL ESTATE MARKET LUCY TUCK ER REALTOR

207.239.1336 | yoursouthernmainemove.com 50 Sewall St Portland, Maine 04102

For more information on properties in the Realty Report contact us at lucytucker@kw.com

R EA LT Y R E P ORT | REAL ESTAT E

WHO YOU ARE IN RELATIONSHIP WITH REALLY MATTERS WHEN IT COMES TO REAL ESTATE For personalized service and exceptional success rates, pair with an experienced, connected Realtor and Title Company

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TLSETTLEMENT.COM | 207-761-7277 | 970 BAXTER BLVD, PORTLAND, MAINE 04103

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

DIY VALENTINES

ARTS

ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON

1. Arts Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.

2. Sweets A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.

3. Sentiments Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.

H OW TO | ARTS + C ULTURE

SENTIMENTS

The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour. Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.

SWEETS

Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home

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