On a hot summer day, there’s not much that beats a cool, crisp gin and tonic with a splash of lime. There is just something so satisfying about the tanginess of the gin and the bubbly fizz of the tonic. Bombay or Tanqueray might line your shelves, ready to report for duty for cocktail hours to come. But tell them to move over. There’s a new gin in town, well, Union, to be specific, which will give you a gin and tonic like no other you’ve sipped before.

It’s called

According to Mainetoday.com, "state officials have closed Cobscook Bay and parts of the Down East coast to mussel harvesting due to red tide." For a more in depth article, check out the BDN article. WCSH is reporting this morning that the

The July 2008 Issue of Down East features fine dining in Boothbay Harbor at 93 Townsend.

Also, read about Maine's favorite summer treat, the Sea Dog Biscuit.

If the ice cream sandwich isn't your thing, how

As summer approaches (or rather makes quite a forceful entrance with this heat wave), Mainers and Maine foodies alike begin to dwell on some common themes. It's like a biological clock, ticking slowly all winter: come June, we just crave lobster, farmers' markets, al fresco dining, fried clams, ice cream, and all things grilled. It's in our blood. And while I have scouted out a few of my favorite spots for these scrumptious Maine treats, I want to hear what you have to say. Luckily, DownEast.com

PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, has proposed a Lobster Empathy Center, according to its website and the BDN. The new center, the first of its kind in the world, would be housed in the vacant Skowhegan jail building.

In a press release (read the whole thing