WEST PARIS — To expand access to lifesaving and life-changing resources for those in recovery in the West Paris community, Ripple Retreat is hosting Bands for Recovery, Playing for Discovery–a family-friendly, alcohol-free music festival.

The all-day event is scheduled on June 22, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Ripple Retreat’s natural amphitheater at 186R Main Street, West Paris. In addition to providing a fun, family-friendly, sober event for the community, proceeds from the festival will go toward the creation of a multipurpose room at Ripple Retreat. The room will provide a much-needed space for those in recovery to hold meetings, educational events, and the practice of holistic healing methods, such as yoga, meditation, and reiki.

“West Paris, Maine, a community of nearly 1,800 residents, currently does not have an easily accessible space at the disposal of those seeking help and support in their battle against addiction,” said Ripple Retreat founder, Major. Jeffrey J. Holley (Ret.), United States Air Force. “It’s our hope the music festival itself will have a positive ripple effect, and help us create a space where members of the community can come together to support each other on their journey of recovery.”

Believing we all can make a positive ripple in our lives and the lives of others, Holley–a six-time combat war veteran who is in recovery himself–founded Ripple Retreat. The alcohol-free retreat center and outdoor venue provide a safe space for those who want to host events free from the influences of alcohol and illegal drugs, including retreats, weddings, birthday parties, and concerts.

Recovery Resources at the Festival

For those currently in recovery or anyone interested in exploring sober living, several organizations in the recovery community will be on hand at the festival providing information about the resources they can provide. Among those organizations is The Lakes Region Recovery Center, which will provide doses of the life-saving opioid antidote naloxone–widely known as Narcan–as well as education on how to use it.

Just five years ago, Maine was among the country’s top 10 states with the biggest opioid problem. However, new national data shows the state experienced one of the steepest declines in overdose deaths. Health experts believe a big reason for the decline is increased access to both naloxone and treatment.

“West Paris has seen the devastating effects of the opioid crisis firsthand. If we can save just one life by not only making naloxone available but also by teaching people how and when to use it, it will be worth it,” Holley said. “While there is more work to do, I truly believe the positive trend in OD deaths we’re seeing is the ripple effect of the cooperation between the entire recovery community and health officials. The steps being taken are saving lives.”

Other recovery organizations scheduled to attend the festival include:
The Portland Recovery Center
The HILLS Recovery Center
Tucker’s House

Entertainment at the Festival

Bands for Recovery, Playing for Discovery is a park-style event, where festival-goers can bring their chair or blanket, pick a spot on the grass, and enjoy a day of great music, food, games, vendors, and support. Tickets are $25 for adults and can be purchased online. Children 17 and under who are with a parent can attend for free.

The event lineup features popular, well-known local artists who are donating their performances to the cause.
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Vanessa Jones
12  to 1 p.m. – Leah Hersom
1 to 2:30 p.m. – Jody Boys
3 to 4 p.m. – Amy Stacey Curtis
4 to 5 p.m. – In the Wind
5:30 to 7 p.m. – Ed Millett & Friends
7 to 8 p.m. – Power Hour with Guest Speakers
8 to 10 p.m. – Papa Tim and The Whiskey Throttle Band
Aerialist Aerial Jade

While there won’t be alcohol, there will be plenty of food and vendors available at the festival. While new vendors continue to sign up, the businesses currently scheduled to attend include:
Rocket Ron’s American Grill
Roadside BBQ
Sail Away Coffee
Hodgkiss Family Candy & Gifts
Broken Down Art by Tiffany
AS Designs
Roxy Kai Art
Diamond Painting by Heather