Host: Ron Beard, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Studio Engineer: Amy Browne Issue: Community concerns and opportunities Program Topic: The Abbe Museum—Bridging Wabanaki and White People and Cultures Key Discussion Points: • What were the origins of the Abbe and what is it’s current mission? • Big step to create its downtown location… what is the relationship between the museum in Acadia and the downtown museum? • What were the potentials you saw when you came… what continues to excite you? • How has the role of the Abbe to bridge “white” and Wabanaki people and cultures evolved, perhaps using Twisted Path as an example? • What is the role of “museum educator”? What do you enjoy about your work in schools, or when school and other groups visit the Abbe? • George brings so much to his role… what are some of the obvious and not-so-obvious contributions from your Passamaquoddy/Wabanaki culture, your education? • How do you see the Abbe helping to bridge Wabanaki and “white” people and cultures? • One of the planks in that bridge might be basket-making… talk about the art and artistry of basketmaking in Wabanaki culture… historical and current context • Describe the role of the museum to help “build community” in Bar Harbor, and Mount Desert Island… what do you do to foster those connections, to build community capacity? • Talk about the new exhibit inspired by the women of Indian Township and the effects of substance abuse on the community… what questions would you like visitors to ponder? • What else should we look for at the Abbe in coming months? What are some of the other staff working on? • How has your affiliation with the Smithsonian affected your programming and recognition? Guests: Cinnamon Catlin-Legutko, President, Abbe Museum George Neptune, Museum Educator, Abbe Museum

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