Roland Labbe opened the first gay bar in Portland, Maine, in 1967. At one point, there were at least 9 queer bars in Portland. Now, there is only left: Blackstones. This story explores the question of why so many gay bars have closed, as well as the need for queer community spaces, and the importance of drag shows. Please Note: This piece discusses sex and contains some profanity.

Roland Labbe opened the first gay bar in Portland, Maine, in 1967. At one point, there were at least 9 queer bars in Portland. Now, there is only left: Blackstones. This story explores the question of why so many gay bars have closed, as well as the need for queer community spaces, and the importance of drag shows. Please Note: This piece discusses sex and contains some profanity.

Auction houses play an important role in Maine for the trading of antiques and collectibles. Molly Gerbracht explores the auctioneering business and those who frequent the auctions.

Elizabeth Peck documents the work of Peter Hagerty, founder of a Russian-American yarm company. Peck discusses how Peace Fleece was founded on the idea of "peace through trade," and as a way to fight back memories of Vietnam.

Facing the potential of closing down due to less funding and low attendance, teenage performers at the Theater Project decided to put on a show to raise money and awareness in the community. Marc LeBourdias documents the work that the performers did to complete their improv show and the importance of the theater for them.

In Portland, the sea urchin industry represents an opportunity for individuals of all backgrounds to have a job working on the waterfront. Joan Amory explores how lucrative this business is for individuals in Portland.

Holly Wilmeth captures the work of Raymond Strout, a carpenter by trade, who is a blood wormer by nature.

In order to have equal work places and environments, women should have the opportunity to receive the same training as a man would receive. Vasna Wilson captures how Women Unlimited, a non-profit organization, recruits women interested in non-traditional trade and technical skills training.

Elaine Koustenis documents the work of Joanna Basinger, a mother of five who runs a barter and trade website. Koustenis discusses how Basinger aims to bring people together with the website in a time when people only care for themselves.

Barton Girdwood highlights key aspects of the Oxford County Fair through the use of photographs.

The profession of midwifery in Maine is not legal, but is also not illegal, despite being centuries old. Emily Ambrose documents the efforts of two professional midwives as they push for legalization and recognition of their trade as viable alternatives to hospitalized births.

For nearly half a century, Ken Campbell has been caulking boats. Carl Young speaks to Campbell about getting into the trade and the work that goes into repairing a boat.