3 New Old Town Businesses Get "Paddled" By The City Wednesday

Three restaurants in the Old Town area received a "paddle" from business leaders in the community and City officials Wednesday. But in this case, getting a paddle isn't a bad thing.

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EJ Roach, Director of Economic & Community Development for the City of Old Town says the Downtown Old Town (DTOT) "Is a group of business owners, residents, educators, elected officials, and staff focusing on the re-development of Downtown Old Town. DTOT has been working since December of 2021 with the Maine Development Foundation and the Maine Downtown Center to continue its efforts on revitalizing Downtown."

Bestowing the paddles is the group's way of welcoming the new business to the area. But Roach says the practice was put on hold when the pandemic hit.

Paddle 3, E.J. Roach

Roach says they are happy to be bringing it back again.

"We try to give a paddle to each new business that comes to Old Town. We usually let them get their feet under them before we present a paddle."

Left To Right, David Walker, EJ Roach, Jeff Solari, Owner Catherine Solari, Owner Lisa Gallant, Laurie Miller

The three businesses honored this week were Kosta's Restaurant which opened in December of 2021...

Left to Right, David Walker, EJ Roach, Angela Thompson, General Manager
Lisa Gallant, Laurie Miller

...Pepper's Landing which opened in May of 2022...

Left to Right, EJ Roach, City of Old Town, Corey Thibodeau, Owner, Laurie Miller, Downtown Old Town, David Walker, Old Town Development, LLC Lisa Gallant, Old Town Development, LLC

... and the new donut shop, MeMe G’s which opened in June of this year.

Roach says he hopes recognizing new businesses encourages new organizations to consider making Old Town their home.

"Old Town has a strong economic base, business support, advanced infrastructure, and a desirable quality of life which promotes growth and investment for both businesses and residents alike."