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V O L . X X X N O. X X I S E P T E M B E R 1 6 , 2 0 2 4 18 F O C U S A U G U S TA / WAT E R V I L L E / C E N T R A L M A I N E "I think we are about midstream about where we would like to be," says Furchak. "When I bought the business five years ago I kind of had a 10-year plan in my head and I feel like we are about halfway there. We finally zipped up the minor finished product and now we're going to showcase that product. It is a great city to be in right now." Waterville is becoming a hub for more festivals Waterville is known for its Art Center, which has brought many new and old events back to life, includ- ing the Maine International Film Festival. e festival showcases the best of American and international cinema with world premieres, classic revivals, inspiring performances and exhibitions. It also highlights some of Maine and New England's most innovative filmmakers. It lasts 10 days and features over 100 films. is year, the film festival ran from July 12 through July 21. But that is not all this year. For the first time, the downtown welcomed a new festival for book lovers. Madelyn Smith, the founder and organizer of the Maine Book Fest, told Mainebiz that this annual event was founded to cultivate and nurture Maine's literary and creative com- munity. Involvement has come from authors, publishers, bookstores, non- profits and educational organizations, printmakers and artists. e Maine Book Fest took place on Aug. 24-25. is year, the orga- nization had 10,000 attendees and more than 60 vendors and performers throughout the weekend, compared to one to two thousand people and 20 vendors attending last year. "Waterville seemed like the perfect location due to the central location within Maine and amenities such as Head of Falls Park, Waterville Creates, Greene Block + Studio, and a bustling downtown," she continues. "We will continue to host the Maine Book & Print Fair [under a new name] in Waterville for 2025 and the foreseeable future." What is expected for the future Many business owners have expressed what they hope for Waterville in the next five years. Furchak, of Holy Cannoli, says that he hopes to see more businesses downtown, including a shoe store and a men's and women's clothing store. Brann, of Main Street Provisions, says more festivals and events would help build on the momentum, making Waterville a destination town. Both business owners expressed how they hope to see more summer visitors make Waterville a must-stop destination. Mitchell, a Waterville native, told Mainebiz that he expects continued collaboration between the major stake- holders in Waterville and additional focus and strategic planning in eco- nomic development, job creation and market-rate housing. "e right combination of these three elements is the secret sauce that fuels everything from educating our kids and improving infrastructure to public safety and assisting our most needy citizens," says Mitchell. "I'm very bullish on Waterville and see a bright future for our great city." A l e x i s We l l s , M a i n e b i z S t a f f Wr i t e r / S o c i a l M e d i a S t ra t e g i s t , c a n be r e a ch e d a t aw e l l s @ m a i n e b i z . b i z The best choice for your business banking just got easier. Christopher Rugullies SVP Relationship Manager crugullies@barharbor.bank 207-601-5718 Daryl Wentworth SVP, Director Middle Market Banking dwentworth@barharbor.bank 207-771-1216 We can make it happen. Together. All loans subject to credit approval. Additional terms, fees, and conditions may apply for some products. Discover why we're one of Forbes' World's Best Banks Talk with our Portland area Commercial Banking team today. Together with our commercial lending teams throughout Northern New England, we can help you and your business succeed. Member FDIC www.barharbor.bank • 888-853-7100 Over 50 locations across northern New England Joe Delano SVP Relationship Manager jdelano@barharbor.bank 207-771-1217 Our Portland-based commercial team can help your business grow. • Loans up to $50 million with flexible terms • Competitive rates tailored to your business needs • Small business and corporate cash management • High-volume transaction tools with leading technology • Personalized service of local banking experts » C O N T I N U E D F RO M P R E V I O U S PA G E P H O T O / J I M N E U G E R Jason and January Furchak, owners of Holy Cannoli in Waterville.

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