News

The 2nd Annual Island Connections Sugar Showdown, was held on February 8th at the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel in Bar Harbor. The event was another huge success, with Bar Harbor Savings and Loan (BHSLA) proudly serving as the Title Sponsor. Over 300 guests attended, enjoying a wide variety of baked goods, including cakes, whoopie pies, and other delectable treats.

David Cohen, President & CEO of BHSLA expressed his support for the event, stating, "This is a great event for the community, bringing people together to raise funds for Island Connections in a fun and enjoyable way. BHSLA is honored to support Island Connections in all they do." Cohen also highlighted his pride in serving on the board of Island Connections, which plays a vital role in assisting seniors and individuals with disabilities by providing transportation to medical appointments, delivering Meals on Wheels, and facilitating grocery shopping for neighbors in need.

The event featured entertainment by the Washboard Rebellion, further enhancing the lively atmosphere. Participants competed in four categories: Blueberry Bliss, Whoopie Pies, Showstopper, and Most Dazzling Cake, with the community also voting for their favorite samples using tokens purchased with their tickets. The judges tallied both the community votes and the top entries in each category.

The winners of the competition were as follows:

SWEET SURPRISE
1st: Abby Kimball – Jordan Pond House Bars
2nd: JoAnne Wood and Stella Byer – Pumpkin Cream Cheese Whoopie Pies
3rd: Crystal Roberts – Red Velvet Truffles

BLUEBERRY BLISS
1st: Michelle Brzezowski – Lemon Tartlets
2nd: Letty Axtell – Blueberry Raspberry Pavlova
3rd: Blissful Bites / Jessica Edmonson – Blueberry Peach Pop Tart

SHOWSTOPPER
1st: Crystal Roberts – Chocolate Layered Cake
2nd: Emily Homer – "Siren Song"
3rd: Mary de Koning – "Cool and Spice and Everything Ice"

MOST DAZZLING CAKE
Carol Schaefer – "Island Connections Summer Confections" (Hamburger and Sundae)

COMMUNITY CHOICE AWARD
JoAnne Wood and Stella Byer – Pumpkin Cream Cheese Whoopie Pies

In addition to Bar Harbor Savings & Loan Association, event sponsors included the Atlantic Oceanside, Rotary International, the Knowles Company, Nautilus Marine Fabrication, and local community members. Proceeds from the event will benefit Island Connections, supporting their mission to provide essential transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities on Mount Desert Island.

For more information about Island Connections, please visit islconnections.org.

David Cohen, President & CEO, Treasurer helped guests sign in at the Sugar Showdown.

Rhonda Sawyer, Vice President, Sr. Loan Officer participated in the Whoopie Pie Classification.

Donna and Ray Chalifour enjoying the festivities.