Of all the qualities that go into a revitalization, vitality is the one that pumps the pedal. Roxi Suger is happy to tap that resource – in herself and everyone she encounters on the sidewalks and riverbanks of Biddeford.

With the confluence of so much energy and creativity, are we looking at a Biddeford Renaissance? Yes, with one alteration. Here they’re calling it “The Biddesance.” They’re in good company. Because towns across the state are experiencing their own version of the “sance” via “Main Street Maine,” a downtown revitalization effort of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Maine Development Foundation.

Preserving history is all in a day’s work for Mainers who honor their maker heritage and craft new ways of expressing the originality and inspiration that are the lifeblood of Maine. As the timeless sound of the Saco River blends with her vintage sewing machines, Roxi Suger pauses to reflect on what makes it all work so seamlessly. “It is, of course, a beautiful, beautiful state. But really it’s the people. The people are hardworking, industrious, givers, doers.”