[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 122 (Thursday, July 31, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S5301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  DOWN EAST MAGAZINE 60TH ANNIVERSARY

  Ms. COLLINS. Madam President, I rise today to recognize the 60th 
anniversary of Down East: The Magazine of Maine. From the inaugural 
August, 1954, edition of 5,000 copies assembled around a kitchen table 
in Camden, ME, Down East has grown to become one of America's most 
successful regional publications with a circulation that exceeds 90,000 
and a devoted readership of people around the country who love the 
beauty and culture of the State of Maine.
  Down East was founded by Duane Doolittle, a native Mainer who left a 
secure teaching position at Syracuse University at the age of 42 to 
return home in pursuit of his dream to publish a magazine dedicated to, 
as he wrote in his first message to readers, ``honestly reflecting the 
beauty, the spirit, the unique and special qualities that make this 
corner of the world like no other place under the sun.'' For six 
decades, that statement of purpose has been fulfilled by talented 
photographers and engaging writers, today under the leadership of 
publisher Bob Fernald.
  The name of the magazine was taken from the historic practice of 
sailing downwind to head east along the coast of Maine, and Down East 
continues to celebrate the heritage of Maine. At the same time, the 
magazine has expanded its scope to cover with expertise and insight 
contemporary trends in the arts, food, fashion, business, and politics. 
In addition to its award-winning print publication, Down East has a 
strong digital presence with a global readership of more than 900,000 
and a popular interactive kiosk at the Portland Jetport that offers the 
best in Maine-made products.
  Down East goes beyond recording life in Maine to enhancing it. From 
charities and land conservation to the arts and festivals, the company 
is a generous supporter of efforts that strengthen our communities.
  Capturing the essence of Maine in print is no easy task. Duane 
Doolittle put it this way: ``To attempt to crack the mystery of what 
those things are that make a Downeaster different from a Texan or a 
Hoosier would be as unavailing as pondering the imponderables. All we 
can honestly say is that we are tuned to this particular parcel of 
earth and we like its music.''
  That mystery may never be cracked, but for 60 years Down East: The 
Magazine of Maine has made the attempt entertaining and enlightening. I 
congratulate the leadership and staff of Down East on this milestone 
anniversary and wish them continued success for years to come.

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