PDEN • HOULTON • NEWPORT • DOVER-FOXCROFT • ROCKLAND • FORT KENT • BAR HARBOR • MILLINOCKET • BREWER • PRESQUE ISLE • FRANKFO
EV SPE CE EN CI LE TS AL BR F AT ROM FEA IN T TU G R 6 L HE OC CR ES AL OW INS EN N O ID E TR F EP MA ! RE I NE NE UR S
Get Out There!
13 Family Fun Activities All Over Maine
Recognizing MS Week Learn How You Can Get Involved
Inside:
Then & Now: Castine St. Paddy’s Day Slow Cooker Feast News from the Crown of Maine
$5.95
March 2015
Going Green Students Offer a Lesson in Sustainability
Your people, your region, your magazine.
MARCH 2015
contents
features COMMUNITY MINDED / 13 Corenna O’Brien thrives on chaos MIX IT UP / 15 Ready for brunch with Ass Over Teakettle bloody Mary mix MS AWARENESS WEEK / 17 Recognizing MS Awareness Week March 2-8 DON’T BE A STICK IN THE MUD / 24 Get out and about this mud season with these family friendly activities NOW & THEN: CASTINE / 34 Take a tour through historic Castine SLOW COOKER CORNED BEEF / 46 A new take on a St. Patrick’s Day classic SHOWING OFF HIS COOKING CHOPS COAST TO COAST / 50 Eli Irland talks about “Chopped” and his career at The Brooklin Inn
FINDING A WAY TO ZERO / 70 Learn how Maine schools and businesses are working toward zero waste
Maine Woods & Waters, page 62 ON THE COVER
Gorham Middle School students MacAllister Moss and Connor Donnelly, both 12, are part of a sustainability program at their school.
Cover Photo: Troy Bennett
2 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
24 PHOTOS: BDN FILE PHOTOS BY (TOP) AISLINN SARNACKI; (BOTTOM) GABOR DEGRE
CROWN OF MAINE / 65 News from Aroostook County
Eye on Industry, page 15 34
46
PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY OF KEVIN COUTURE PHOTOGRAPHY; RICHARD SHAW; EMILY MCINTOSH; JOHN MARTIN
56
in every issue
columns
TALK OF THE TOWNS / 8 News from your communities
METRO WELLNESS / 23 Learning life lessons on a surfboard
BIZ BUZZ & SIGHTINGS / 10 People and places on the move
ROOTED IN ME / 31 A how-to guide to cloth diapering
UNSUNG HERO / 16 Red Cross hero Darlene Helms
MAINE WOODS & WATERS / 62 Following the Thoreau-Wabanaki trail
METRO SPORTS / 40 Husson’s history-making basketball team and new life for Brewer hockey
LAST WORD / 80 How clean is your garbage?
WHAT’S HAPPENING / 43 Enjoy March to its fullest PERSPECTIVES / 54 The work of Wesley Reddick SAVVY SENIORS / 56 New film features community project
BONUS FEATURE! 2015 GREEN GUIDE How folks are going green all over our state
ONLINE EXCLUSIVES • Scan the code to visit us at bangormetro.com Visit us out on Facebook to enter fun giveaways! Check out our interactive map of Calais (featured in Now & Then on page 34) More photos from events around our region. Email your own event photos: sightings@bangormetro.com
page 69
REAL ESTATE / 58 Orrington home on the market www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 3
editor’s note
Welcome to March and the first issue of Bangor Metro entirely produced under the magazine’s new ownership at the Bangor Daily News.
Elder Wellness Program page 8
AIMEE THIBODEAU, MANAGING EDITOR
Below: Bangor Metro staffers get all decked out at the inaugural Bangor Metro Entrepreneurial Awards in December.
Ass Over Teakettle Bloody Mary Mix page 16
The Brooklin Inn page 54 The Bangor Metro Region
Connect with Bangor Metro Online! bangormetro.com facebook.com/BangorMetro @BangorMetro editor@bangormetro.com
4 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
PHOTO: KATE CRABTREE
Below: BDN and Bangor Metro represent at the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce 2015 Annual Dinner with (front, left to right) Brian Cotlar, Laurie Cates, Laurie Trifoso and Aimee Thibodeau; (back) Deandra Briggs, Todd McCloud, Pat Lemieux and Mariza Taylor.
We were blessed this year with mountains of snow that have been great for Maine’s winter economy, but hopefully Punxsutawney Phil was wrong and spring makes a timely arrival on March 20 to help us kick off a fresh new start for Bangor Metro. While we’ve heard some concerns that the magazine might turn into a political publication, or start to focus on hard news, have no fear. You might see some new layouts, icons to direct you to more content online, and a few additional features, but our focus will remain on the businesses, families, organizations and communities that make Maine special. As we begin this new journey, we look forward to (and depend on) hearing from you – our readers. What do you love about the magazine? What could you live without? We also need you to continue sending us your news and calendar items. So let’s keep those lines of communication open. You can email me at athibodeau@bangordailynews.com, visit us at bangormetro.com, or follow and like us on Facebook and Twitter at facebook.com/BangorMetro and @BangorMetro.
www.bangormetro.com P.O. Box 1329 Bangor, Maine 04402-1329 Phone: 207.990.8000
MANAGING EDITOR
Aimee Thibodeau athibodeau@bangordailynews.com
STAFF WRITER
Natalie Fuelner nfuelner@bangordailynews.com
SALES MANAGER
Laurie Cates lcates@bangordailynews.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Stacy Jenkins sjenkins@bangordailynews.com
ART DIRECTOR
Amy Allen aallen@bangordailynews.com
SUBSCRIPTION & PROMOTIONS MANAGER
Pat Lemieux
STAFF PHOTOS: JUSTIN RUSSELL, MELANIE BROOKS, GABOR DEGRE & BRIAN FEULNER
plemieux@bangordailynews.com
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 5
Addi on-airp tional or availabl t parking ei Shuttle n new Lot!* CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bob Duchesne
Jane Margesson
Deb Neuman
Cameron Paquette
Richard Shaw
Jeff McIntosh
Chris Quimby
Emilie Brand Throckmorton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS & ARTISTS
Troy Bennett
Jeff Kirlin
Emily McIntosh
Bangor Metro Magazine. March 2015, Vol. 11, No. 2. Copyright © Metro Publishing LLC. Bangor Metro is published ten times annually by Metro Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. This magazine may not be reproduced in whole or part in any form without the written permission of the Publisher. Bangor Metro is mailed at standard rates from Portland, Maine. Opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements do not represent the opinions of the staff or publisher of Bangor Metro magazine. Advertisers and event sponsors or their agents are responsible for copyrights and accuracy of all material they submit. Bangor Metro magazine to the best of its ability ensures the acuracy of information printed in the publication.
See that? A warmer place is calling you. The signs are there - you need a break! Fortunately, we happen to have just the cure. Go to FlyBangor.com and book one of our many affordable non-stop or connecting flights to sunny destinations. Convenience, competitive fares and friendly service…and that’s no mirage!
Inquiries and suggestions are welcome and encouraged. Letters to the editor, story suggestions, and other reader input will be subject to Bangor Metro’s unrestricted right to edit and publish in the magazine both in print and online. Editorial: Queries should be sent to Aimee Thibodeau at athibodeau@bangordailynews.com. Advertising: For advertising questions, please call the Director of Sales, Laurie Cates at 207-990-8149. Subscriptions/Address Change: A one year subscription cost is $19.95. Address changes: to ensure delivery, subscribers must notify the magazine of address changes one month in advance of the cover date. Please contact Pat Lemieux at 207-990-8219. Accounts Payable/Receivable: For information about your account please contact Laurie Cates at 207-990-8149.
COVER PHOTO: Troy Bennett
Fly nonstop to two Florida cities — Orlando/Sanford and Tampa/St. Petersburg. Or connect to the sun through Detroit, New York - LaGuardia, Philadelphia or Washington, DC. BGR_BangorMetro_sandcastle.indd 1
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 7
2/2/15 11:14 PM
talk of the towns
Dave Getchell Sr., a longtime volunteer with the Georges River Land Trust, explains where a 19th century canal system was built alongside the Georges River during a 2012 walking event.
ROCKLAND: Georges River Land Trust has achieved land trust accreditation from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance. Based in Rockland, the trust has been working to conserve the ecosystems and traditional heritage of the Georges River watershed region through permanent land protection, stewardship, education, and outdoor experiences for more than 25 years. Accomplishments include more than 3,400 acres conserved and 50 miles of trails created in 14 towns 8 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
along the St. George River. Georges River Land Trust was awarded accreditation in December 2014 and is one of only 285 land trusts from across the country that has been awarded accreditation since the fall of 2008. Each accredited land trust must submit extensive documentation and undergo a rigorous review. Recent Georges River Land Trust projects include permanent conservation of more than 200 acres of land in South Thomaston, more than six miles of new trails, and a partnership with Colby
College and the Kohler Foundation to conserve the Cushing property and artwork of Maine artist Bernard Langlais. “The accreditation process has significantly enhanced our ability to ensure conservation in perpetuity. We all feel very proud and trust it will provide a high level of confidence for our community,” said the trust’s executive director, Gail Presley. “Strong, community supported land trusts like Georges River serve our residents as effective caretakers of our critical natural resources, and safeguard the land for future generations.”
PHOTO: BDN FILE PHOTO/ABIGAIL CURTIS
Recognizing Conservation Success
Learning Outside the Classroom
Northern Maine Community College nursing students and the “well elders” they visited gathered for the annual Well Elder Tea at NMCC in Presque Isle.
PRESQUE ISLE: Aroostook County senior citizens who volunteered for a nursing program initiative at Northern Maine Community College were the honored guests at a celebratory tea on the NMCC campus. The Well Elder program, coordinated annually by the NMCC nursing and allied health department, pairs members of the first-year nursing class with healthy senior citizens who volunteer to allow students into their homes throughout the semester to practice their assessment techniques. The program has been a part of the nursing
curriculum at NMCC for more than a decade. The culmination of the project has involved bringing all of the students and well elders together for a celebration. “The program provides a wonderful opportunity for students to observe and experience ‘normal’ aging in the individual’s own environment,” said Mary Cornelio, NMCC nursing instructor and coordinator of first-year nursing students. “It allows the students to reflect and gain a broad perspective of the aging process. The well elders play an important role in helping to
PHOTOS: (TOP) COURTESY OF NORTHERN MAINE COMMUNITY COLLEGE; (BOTTOM) BDN FILE PHOTO/COURTESY OF BANGOR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Paying It
Forward
BANGOR: Bangor Federal Credit Union has helped Brewer Community School students with a Children’s Miracle Network fundraiser that hits close to home. Noah Tibbetts, a 10-year-old survivor of bacterial meningitis who was recently named Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals State of Maine Champion Child, is always coming up with ways to “pay it forward” after his experience growing up with a disease. “Nickels with Noah,” his latest campaign, encouraged classmates in Brewer to donate their coins for the month of October. The class who raised the most money during this time would be awarded a pizza party. When the coins started coming in faster than expected, Noah’s mother Julie wondered how they could count all of the money. She reached out to Bangor Federal to see if they could use the branch’s coin counter free of charge, and the credit union surprised Noah by not only letting them use the coin counter, but also by offering to match what the Brewer classrooms raised. The school raised $2,353.40, which resulted in a $4,706.80 donation. Noah and his brother Gabe accepted the checks from Brewer
mold the future generation of nurses and we are so appreciative of their allowing the students into their homes.” At the event, students introduced their well elder and shared the most valuable lesson they learned that will help them throughout their nursing career. The attendees also heard about current issues related to elder health and educational opportunities from keynote speakers Nancy Roe and Judy Burleigh who both serve on the Board of Directors of Seniors Achieving Greater Education.
Michael Sturdee from Bangor Federal Credit Union presents a check to Noah and Gabe Tibbetts for "Nickels with Noah."
Community School and Bangor Federal on behalf of Children’s Miracle Network at Brewer Community School, where they held a pizza party for Aimee Raymond’s first grade class, which brought in the highest amount — $286.01. “Projects like this are the heart and essence of a tight community. Bangor Federal will always be part of community-building programs,” said Michael Sturdee, Bangor Federal marketing director. “We’re lucky to have Noah and his family right here near us to inspire our community to do good and help one another. That’s what Bangor Federal is all about.” www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 9
biz buzz & sightings On the Move The Maine State Employees Association, Local 1989 of the Service Employees International Union Board of Directors has promoted ROD HILTZ , a longtime Maine unionist who most recently served as a member of the union’s senior management team, to become the union’s new executive director. Hiltz, 55, of Monmouth, has served since February 2007 as the union’s director of field mobilization and also as chief negotiator for the union’s largest bargaining units. Hiltz earned his first union card in 1978 through United Paperworkers International Union Local 14 at the Jay mill. From 1985 until early 2007, he worked as a paperworker and later as president of (UPIU, PACE) United Steelworkers Local 9 at the S.D. Warren/ Sappi paper mill in Skowhegan. mseaseiu.org Eastern Maine Healthcare System President and CEO Michelle Hood has announced the upcoming retirement of MILES THEEMAN, EMHS vice president, chief sales and marketing officer. Theeman’s last day will be April 4. Theeman arrived at EMHS in 1976 as an assistant administrator of ambulatory services and registration at Eastern Maine Medical Center. He later spent 26 years as president and CEO at Affiliated Healthcare Systems — an EMHS member organization. For the past year, Theeman has served as EMHS vice president and chief sales and marketing officer. www.emhs.org EWELINA BOLCUN-FILAS, PH.D., who
studies the genes and processes involved in the development of healthy eggs and sperm, has joined The Jackson Laboratory faculty as an assistant professor. The Polish-born Bolcun-Filas earned her M.Sc. in biology/genetics from Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland. After completing her Ph.D. in developmental biology from the Georg-August-Universität, Institut für Humangenetik in Göttingen, Germany, she held a postdoctoral fellowship at the MRC Human Genetics Unit in Edinburgh, U.K. She comes to JAX from Cornell University, where she has been a 10 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
postdoctoral associate and research scientist in the laboratory of Professor John Schimenti, Ph.D. www.jax.org
Awards The Maine Innkeepers Association presented ALVION KIMBALL of the Orland House B&B with the coveted Innkeeper of the Year Award; REP. RICHARD MALABY of the Crocker House Country Inn in Hancock with the 2014 Community Service Award; and LEEANNE HEWEY of The Vacationland Inn in Brewer with the 2014 Special Service Award at its annual meeting at Point Lookout Resort in Northport. www.maineinns.com DR. WENDY WOLF, president and CEO of
Maine Health Access Foundation, was honored by the Maine Primary Care Association as the recipient of their prestigious President’s Award. MEPCA Board member and Eastport Health Care CEO Holly Gartmayer-DeYoung presented the award citing Dr. Wolf’s work to improve access to quality health care for people in Maine and for advancing initiatives that support better health in communities across the state. Under Dr. Wolf’s direction, the foundation has become a nationally recognized leader in health philanthropy. www.mehaf.org
Grants
NEW HOPE FOR WOMEN received a $500
HopeLine Grant from Verizon Wireless. HopeLine collects no-longer-used wireless phones, batteries, and accessories at communications stores nationwide. Phones that can be refurbished are sold, and those that cannot are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Proceeds from the HopeLine program are used to provide wireless phones and cash grants to local shelters and non-profit organizations that focus on preventing domestic violence, raising awareness, and supporting survivors and their families. The Verizon grant funds were used to purchase gift cards from local retailers for gasoline, groceries, much-needed winter clothing, and other necessities for NHFW’s clientele and their children. www.newhopeforwomen.org A grant of $1 million from the Next Generation Foundation of Maine has been awarded to the TOWN OF CORINNA to begin the renovation and preservation of the Stewart Library Building. Also, the Maine Historic Preservation Commission awarded the town grants totaling $15,000 for the planning needed to repair the clock tower and steeple of the building. With overall renovation needs estimated at over $2.5 million, these grants will enable the town to begin the process of renovating and preserving this unique, historic treasure located in a rural town in central Maine.
EASTPORT ARTS CENTER received two
grants of $5,000 each from the Maine Community Foundation in two different funding categories: The Maine Theater Fund and the Maine Expansion Arts Fund. The Maine Theater Fund will fund the EAC’s Theater Lobby Renovation Project, which supports the ongoing upgrades to the EAC’s building by renovating the second floor lobby. The second category, the Maine Expansion Arts Fund, is part of the EAC’s longerterm strategy to support a permanent educational outreach position whose focus is supporting the existing relationship to Eastport’s schools, and creating and conducting vibrant intergenerational programs that engage students, their families, seasonal residents, and tourists. www.eastportartscenter.com
The Maine Office of Tourism recently awarded the CROWN OF MAINE BALLOON FESTIVAL a $7,000 Tourism Enterprise Marketing Grant to support the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce marketing to promote the festival. The project will reach potential visitors in Canada and Maine through print and social media and aim to increase traffic to the website for the annual August event. Other grant recipients are: BETHEL MAINE MOOSE LOTTERY FESTIVAL , $10,000; HERMIONE VISIT TO CASTINE, $10,000; EMERGE FILM FESTIVAL , $10,000; FLAVORS OF FREEPORT, $5,000; MAINE CRAFT WEEKEND, $10,000; MAINE ART MUSEUM TRAIL , $8,591; and KATAHDIN WOODS & WATERS SCENIC BYWAY WEBSITE, $10,000. visitmaine.com
Above: Bangor Metro columnist Chris Quimby and Gail Moulton pose for the camera. Below: Representatives from event sponsor The First, Jon Nicholson, senior business relationship officer; Tony McKim, president & CEO; Amy Rollins, marketing director. Bottom: Shelly Sund of the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce and Bangor Metro Managing Editor Aimee Thibodeau enjoy the event. Entrepreneurial Award winner Norm a Desjardins (front, left) of St. Apollonia Dental Clinic in Presque Isle poses with frien ds.
In celebration
of the Bangor Daily News purchasing Bangor Metro, a holiday party and Entrepreneurial Awards event was held Dec. 16 at the Bangor Hilton Garden Inn. Many thanks to our sponsors listed below, as well Chapel Hill Floral, DJ Mike Dow, and photographer Jeff Kirlin for making it a fun and memorable night! PHOTOS BY JEFF KIRLIN
Right: Photographer Jeff Kirlin takes a selfie with DJ Mike Dow.
Turn for more event photos and the full list of winners...
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARD SPONSORS! TROPHY SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSOR
SWAG BAG SPONSOR
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 11
biz buzz & sightings
Geaghan Brot hers
Geaghan’s Pub and Geaghan Bros. Brewing Co.
Abby Freethy
Northwoods Gourmet Girl Greenville
Bangor & Brewer
Congratulations to the winners
of our first-ever Entrepreneurial Awards. These hard-working leaders are providing important resources, growing jobs, and shining a positive light on our region of the state. Thank you!
rien Nancy & PatsanO’B Olive Oils
Gerry Nasberg
FIORE Arti
Pat’s PIzza Ellsworth
and Vinegars Bar Harbor, Rockland, & Freeport
Abe & Heather Furth
Verve, Woodman’s Grill, & The Orono Brewing Co. Orono & Bangor
12 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Norma J. Desjardins
St. Apollonia Dental Clinic Presque Isle
Check us out on Facebook to view all of the photos from our event
PHOTOS: JEFF KIRLIN
For the full story on each of our winners, visit bangormetro.com
movers & shakers
W Community
Minded
Corenna O’Brien’s strongwilled independence has led her to a professional career of helping others. BY DEB NEUMAN
hen Corenna O’Brien
learned that her dear friends Don and Dora Winslow were both battling cancer, she jumped into action and organized an event to celebrate and support the beloved couple. That was four years ago. Since then, O’Brien has signed on to help with a number of other causes and a local political campaign, in addition to continuing her support of the Winslow family. Sadly, Don Winslow, who served as Bangor’s police chief from 1998 to 2007 lost his battle with cancer in July of 2014, but not before O’Brien organized a flash mob and “An Evening with Don” event to celebrate his life. Recently, O’Brien successfully led an effort to name the Bangor Police Department building after Winslow. When asked why Don Winslow was so special to her, O’Brien replied, “He was the most humble man I’ve ever known who treated everyone with respect, and his sense of humor remained intact until the very end.” O’Brien became friends with the Winslows when she worked with Dora in the admissions department at Eastern Maine Medical Center. She transitioned into property management when she and her husband, Kip O’Brien purchased an apartment house in Bangor. That experience led O’Brien to a property management career, first with Bangor Housing Authority then as a regional property manager for AIMCO, managing housing
and is a big reason I am the way I am – strong willed and independent,” O’Brien said. In addition to her mother, O’Brien sites former Maine Sen. Margaret Chase Smith as a role model. In 2011, O’Brien decided it was time to get off the road and find a job closer to home. She became executive director of the Ellen M. Leach Memorial Home, a retirement community in Brewer. And with fewer hours spent traveling, she had the time to become more involved in her community. Her efforts on behalf of the Winslows were noticed by many, leading to additional opportunities for O’Brien who admits she has a hard time with down time. She hosts a local TV segment on WVII TV/FOX 22 called “Maine Street with Corenna O’Brien,” spotlighting small businesses. O’Brien has been involved with a number of community projects, including a kitchen renovation project for the Bangor Area Recovery Network and organized an event for the Taylor Foundation. She now serves as the spokesperson for “Taylors Law” that would require drivers with intermediate licenses to affix decals to their vehicles identifying their new driver license status. Fifteen-year-old Taylor Darveau of Bucksport died in a 2013 crash when the car she was riding in crashed. That car was driven by a 16 year old with an intermediate license. O’Brien also served as Campaign Manager for the Cary Weston for Maine Senate campaign in 2014.
PHOTO: JEFF KIRLIN
“The more chaos around me, the happier I am... I just keep moving forward and rarely look back.” projects in Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, including a $7 million redevelopment project. Although she grew up in Hampden and now resides in Orrington, O’Brien says Bangor will always be her hometown. She lived there until she was six years old when she and her two older brothers lost their father to lung cancer on Christmas Eve. O’Brien’s only recollection of her Dad’s death was wondering why there were so many people in their house that Christmas. O’Brien’s mother worked as a baker at Westgate IGA to support her family after her husband’s death. “She had a huge influence on me
“I’m not sure why people are listening to me, but I will use it to help others,” O’Brien said of her many activities. She thrives on being busy. “The more chaos around me, the happier I am,” she said. In addition to her many activities, she also co-owns an investigative firm, earned a business degree from Husson University and continues to pursue a masters degree in business administration. When asked about what her future may hold? O’Brien explained that she remains open, but her plans may include starting a consulting business or perhaps politics. “I just keep moving forward and rarely look back.” www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 13
Each month we showcase one of the
S
Nearly 20 years iN
busiNess
onny LeClair, owner of Quality Jewel- in the area cannot provide their ers, has been working clients. Sonny in the jewelry has Quality Jewelers should capitalized on his skills business for 30 years. be your first stop as a jewelry re- when He started out pairma looking for jewelry by as a jewelry polisher n, and Quality Jewelers Alex & Ani as well and found that he was offers the most as Caro74 diamonds. “’Caro’ extensive services in adept at making repairs— the area. They have the in Italian transhe could fix just tools lates to ‘beloved’,” Sonny about anything! His thirst to create or repair just says. “The patentabout anything pendin for knowledge and that is presented to them. g cut of 16 additional business ownership led pavilion facets him to open his own makes each and every Barbette LeClair, Sonny’s store. In May 2015, Sonny Caro74 wife, is a GIA-cer- catch diamond will celebrate 20 tified your eye.” gemologist. Her expertis years in business. e assures clients From a simple birthda that they are working with “I love working with the y gift a professional that is to a 10th people in Bangor not anniversary diamond only knowledgeable about and the surrounding ring, Sonny and his communities because the jewelry busi- team ness, but about the stones at Quality Jewelers are they are down to earth here they and easy to work with,” sell. to serve you. Their loyal custom Do you have old or broken he says. Sonny loves his ers trust Sonny with location on Washingjewelry that repairin you no longer wear? g sentimental, heirloo ton Street in downtown Quality Jewelers will m jewelry as Bangor because it’s well as helping choose buy your gold, silver, one of the few places new jewelry that will or platinum jewelry at downtown with plenty last a lifetime. Sonny’ the highest price. This of parking. Sonny’s salespe s satisfac is a tion guarannew aspect to the ople do not work busines tee assures customers on commission, so you s, and was started that if the gift they because Sonny purcha will never work with a didn’t think people were se to give to a loved pushy salesperson when one does not getting a fair shake shopping at Quality leave them speechless, from the gold buying Jewelers. This assures the customer can businesses that were customers that they will exchange it for one that popping up around the always receive the highest does. area. level of customer Quality Jewelers is open Because Quality Jeweler service and satisfaction. from 9 a.m. to 5 s does not have the p.m. Monday through high overhead that other Looking for something Friday and 9 a.m. to jewelry stores do, they unique? Sonny are 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Hours able to offer the best possible and his team of jeweler are extended during s are able to create prices on dia- the holiday monds and other jewelry. custom pieces using season, making it easier They state-of-the-art equipalso offer the best to than ever get that special someon prices for customers looking ment, something many e a gift from a local for a reputable place other jewelry stores jeweler who truly cares to sell their gold, silver, and about their clients and platinum. their community. •
busi ness SPO TLI GH
Quality Jewelers
T
business SPOTLIGHT
business practices of our partners.
Make sure your business gets the
extrA n attentio
it deserves! When you advertise
eye on industry
Mix It Up I
PHOTOS: KEVIN COUTURE PHOTOGRAPHY
f you love
a good Bloody Mary, you need to give “Ass Over Teakettle” Bloody Mary mix a try! Created by Katie Quinn, this mix is crafted in small batches and has just the right blend of tomato juice, freshly squeezed lemons and limes, spices and horseradish to give your Bloody Mary that fresh flavor and just the right “kick.” Quinn grew up in a family business, spending much of her childhood messing around in a restaurant kitchen. Her family has owned the Lakewood Theatre and Lakewood Inn Restaurant in Madison for 30 seasons, and that’s where she began creating and serving her Bloody Mary mix to her summer patrons (often paired with local Maine vodkas). During the off season, Quinn would bartend at a restaurant in Sugarloaf, bringing her mix with her. Over time, she perfected her recipe and customers began specifically requesting Quinn’s Bloody Mary. Last winter, the restaurant sold 512 of them during a single lunch shift. Her loyal Bloody Mary followers began encouraging her to bottle and sell her mix so they could take it home. Some went as far as handing her money across the bar asking her to, “Please take this money and start bottling your mix.” Although taking money made Quinn uncomfortable, she knew that she needed to pursue her Bloody Mary dream. She started by attending a “Recipe to Market” class offered by the University of Maine’s Cooperative Extension and developing her business plan. Quinn needed a place to set up shop. With assistance from the local chamber of
Ass Over Teakettle bloody mary mix has just the right kick. BY DEB NEUMAN
commerce and Main Street Skowhegan, she found the perfect place. The local chapter of the Freemasons offered her the use of their kitchen. Quinn converted it to a fully-functioning commercial kitchen and “Ass Over Teakettle Bloody Mary Mix” was launched in February 2014. What’s with the name? Coming up with the right name for her mix was a challenge for Quinn. One day she was brainstorming names with her father and getting nowhere when their conversation turned to her great grandmother and how she would talk about people slipping on the ice during Maine winters.“ “There he goes – ass over teakettle,” she would say. It’s an old fashioned adage meaning, “head over heels.” Quinn instantly knew that would be the perfect name for her mix. Using the word “ass” has presented her with some challenges. Even though “ass” refers to a donkey, Quinn had to use a different name to register her business. She chose Willis Henri LLC after her grandfather. Although somewhat controversial, the name for her mix has proven to be a good choice. “It’s quite a conversation starter,” she said. Where can you get it? You don’t have to be a Bloody Mary lover to love this mix. It can add an extra kick to anything from eggs to meatballs to marinade to cake. Quinn is working on a cookbook and is adding new products to her line of Bloody Mary mixes,
Ass Over Teakettle creator Katie Quinn
including a Ceasar and smokehouse mix (for bacon lovers), ketchup, shrimp cocktail and barbecue sauces. “Ass Over Teakettle” mix is available in a number of specialty food, gift and liquor stores from Skowhegan to Searsport. The mix is also for sale online at assoverteakettle.net. A 32-ounce bottle is $9.99 or you can get a gallon for $32.
Where to Find It
Ass Over Teakettle Bloody Mary Mix is available in these area stores: • Ayotte’s, Carrabassett Valley • Marie’s Whole Foods, Readfield • Uncorked Wine & Cheese, Augusta • Weston’s Meat Market, West Gardiner • The Pick Up Café, Skowhegan • The Beverage Mart, Skowhegan • Jokas’, Waterville • Vena’s Fizz House, Portland • Fairservice Family Farm, Edgecomb • Silkweeds, Searsport • Canaan Carry Out, Canaan Also available in these restaurants: • The Old Mill Pub, Skowhegan • Lakewood Inn Restaurant, Madison
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 15
unsung hero
Volunteers
to the Rescue
W
hen Darlene Helms
joins a cause, she jumps in with both feet. Helms signed on to volunteer for the American Red Cross in January 2014, and quickly became one of the organization’s most versatile and reliable volunteers.
shelter, medication, emotional support, etc. — and works with other Red Crossers to ensure these are met. She also takes regular shifts as the region’s DAT coordinator — the initial point of contact when first responders request Red Cross assistance, such as when a fire leaves a family homeless. As coordinator, Helms then dispatches
“She’s a super volunteer with a great work ethic and always upbeat personality.” –Danielle Hardre Helms is a member of the region’s Disaster Action Team, volunteers who respond to events ranging from house fires to natural disasters. As a member of the “DAT” group, she meets with victims, determines their needs — food, clothing, 16 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
those Red Cross volunteers on call. In addition to her Maine work, Helms has participated in relief efforts following last year’s wildfires in Washington State and flooding in Alabama. Helms joined the Red Cross at the
suggestion of her brother, Bangor Fire Chief Thomas Higgins, who sits on the local Board. “I knew she would be a good match,” he said. “She’s a smart lady and can do anything, from filing to planning to managing people. And as a former EMT, she understands emergency services.” Danielle Hardre, the region’s disaster program manager, agrees, calling Helms a “super volunteer with a great work ethic and always-upbeat personality.” For her part, Helms takes the praise in stride. “It’s not a job, it’s a privilege.” The Red Cross is honoring heroes from the community at its annual Real Heroes Breakfast, March 19, at Jeff’s Catering and Event Center, Brewer. FMI: 941-2903.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE RED CROSS
Super volunteer Darlene Helms makes an impact. STORY COURTESY OF AMERICAN RED CROSS
MS Awareness
Week
MS Awareness Week 2015 is March 2–8 People everywhere are creating connections stronger than the ones MS destroys. During this special week, take action to help others learn more about MS and what they can do to make a difference.
What is MS?
IMAGES: (ORANGE FABRIC) SOLEG/THINKSTOCK.COM; PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY, GREATER NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that affects the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and cranial nerves. With MS, white blood cells attack neurons which damages fatty tissues (myelin) around the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. As a result, nerve signals are slowed or blocked, and MS symptoms occur. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as spasticity, paralysis or loss of vision. The progression, severity, and specific symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary from one person to another.
Important Facts Prevalence of MS in United States
Approximately 90 per 100,000 people
Northern States have Higher Prevalence of MS
About 180 per 100,000 people
MS Affects People at the Prime of their Lives
Average age of onset is 30-33 years; average age of diagnosis is 37
There are Now a Number of FDA Approved Medications that can Control Disease Activity and Delay Disability.
There are many other interventions that can help alleviate MS symptoms, maintain function, and improve quality of life.
Did you know..
There are more cases of MS the farther you go from the equator, perhaps because of less exposure to the sun and vitamin D.
Clinic Director Dr. Alexius Sandoval.
More than 2.3 million people worldwide live with MS.
180 of every 100,000 Maine residents has been diagnosed with the disease
Help for Maine Patients
T
Eastern Maine Medical Center offers services for Maine MS patients.
he prevalence of MS
in Maine is among the highest in the nation – approximately 180 of every 100,000 residents has been diagnosed with the disease. Compounding the problem is the shortage of MS service providers to serve the state’s rural population. In July 2013, Eastern Maine Medical Center took a major step forward in assisting Maine MS patients by giving them
BY AIMEE THIBODEAU
“It’s a team approach,” said Lugene Cross, a certified MS nurse. “Each visit is comprehensive. We try to schedule all of these appointments [for one visit], as many as they can tolerate.” Clinic staff also can help coordinate services and treatments with primary care providers, and for those who don’t live close to Bangor, can help coordinate services closer to home.
MS is a very unpredictable disease that can have few or minor symptoms, such as numbness or muscle weakness, but can progress quickly and without warning. access to a variety of key services coordinated under one roof at the EMMC Comprehensive Multiple Sclerosis Care Center at the Union Street Healthcare Mall. The facility’s 100-plus patients can schedule as many appointments as necessary, or as they can handle, in one day at the clinic. This means they may meet with a social worker to assist in obtaining services at home, a psychologist to assist with the mental strain caused by the disease, and receive physical, speech or speciality therapies all in one day to avoid making multiple trips to various care providers. 18 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Most individuals who are diagnosed with MS are in their 20s and early 30s, explained the clinic’s director, Dr. Alexius Sandoval. ”They are active individuals,” he said, noting that most are in college or are working professionals with families. Unfortunately, MS is a very unpredictable disease that can have few or minor symptoms, such as numbness or muscle weakness, but can progress quickly and without warning. “Some people can be very functional and have a very benign case, and some can be very aggressive,” he said.
“In the last 10-20 years we’ve gotten a better understanding of the disease, but there’s still a lot of question marks,” Sandoval said. Prior to 1993, there were no drugs to treat MS. Now, there are more than 10 that are FDA approved. And while there’s no cure for the disease, the medications can slow its progression. Why Maine has such a high rate of MS is unclear, but there are several possibilities. It has been proven that there are more cases of MS the farther you go from the equator, perhaps because of less exposure to the sun and vitamin D. There also is a higher prevalence of MS in caucasians, and while MS hasn’t been proven to be genetic, there may be some genetic influences. In addition, advancements in medical technology have made MS easier to diagnose, thus increasing the number of people being treated for the condition. The hope is that the MS Clinic will not only serve as a central place for services for MS patients in the region, but also will become involved in additional research about the disease in an effort to slow its progression, develop new medications, and unravel the complexities that make it so unpredictable. For more information about EMMC Comprehensive Multiple Sclerosis Care, call 973-5505 or 866-939-4483.
metro health
Finding Inner
Strength Spotlighting the struggles of women living with MS. BY AIMEE THIBODEAU
K
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY, GREATER NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER
risti Fowler,
a 39-year-old mother of three from Dedham, counts her blessings every day. And more often than not those blessings come in the form of her children – son Logan, 14, and daughters Frankie, 11, and Sophie, 6 – whom she talks openly with about the disabling disease that she was diagnosed with six years ago. Fowler doesn’t want her children to be surprised if some morning she wakes up and the multiple sclerosis she was diagnosed with six years ago has quickly progressed. “I talk openly about my MS to all three of my children because MS can be so unpredictable,” she said. “I don't want them to be completely shocked if one day I'm not able to walk on my own and need assistance.” Fowler is divorced and has her children during the week and every other weekend, but she says they’re great helpers and are very understanding when she needs to take naps. “They don't seem to have any animosity towards MS, other than they wish I didn't have it,” she said. At first, the diagnosis was difficult mentally, as well as physically. “I went through a major depression,”
she said. “I felt like I had to be strong for my family and if I showed any weakness, I knew they would take it worse.” So, in 2010, she decided to take the summer off. “I really needed to take a step back from work and concentrate on my kids,” she said. Fowler takes medicine twice a day that gives her an energy boost, which helps her get through. “I don't want to miss out on their milestones so I plan my days around what they have going on,” she said. “If I have a basketball game to go to for my son in the afternoon, I make sure I get my afternoon nap in.” She added that her family, friends and neighbors also have created a fantastic support system. “My parents who are my next door neighbors, my boyfriend Jerry and several close friends – I live in a community where there is always a helping hand and that is something I will always be grateful for,” she said. “The past six years have given me challenges, more than I thought I could handle, but I have overcome each obstacle that was put in front of me and the outcome
has made me a stronger, healthier more positive person.” In addition to focusing on her family, Fowler wants to show the world not only her inner strength, but the inner strength of other women living with MS. Last year, she participated in the National MS Society’s Fashion Plates Luncheon and Fashion Show in Portland. All of the models who participated in the event have MS, and Kristi’s goal for the event was to put a spotlight on the internal struggles that women living with MS go through. The date for this year’s Fashion Plates event hasn’t been announced, but organizers expect it to continue. “I’m certainly hoping that it is going to be a yearly event, for sure,” Fowler said. “Just being at the meetings with committee members is amazing. They have so much gusto, they’re just so into this. We all are.” www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 19
Showing His Support
W
Request for donation reveals sister’s MS diagnosis.
hen James Gerety
of Orono called his sister Nina in California to ask for a donation to his Bike MS event, he was shocked at her response. “She told me she had been diagnosed [with multiple sclerosis]. She tends to keep things like that private and I was the first one in our family that she told,” said Gerety. Gerety, general manager of the Bangor Mall, is used to being in control, but this threw him. “I was shocked when she told me –and a bit scared for her at first. But I know my sister and once it sunk in I knew that she would be incredibly courageous no matter what this diagnosis meant for her.” That was back in 2005 and Gerety is happy to report his sister is doing well living with her MS. But, he said Nina’s
Bike MS:
T
he 31st annual
Bike MS: Great Maine Getaway, to be held Aug. 8-9, 2015, will take place in Biddeford, starting and ending at the University of New England. During the two-day ride, cyclists will experience the beauty of Maine’s southern coastline, including an up close look at Walkers Point, the summer home of President George H.W. Bush.
20 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
diagnosis has spurred his family into action. Gerety not only takes part in Bike MS: Great Maine Getaway, but also added the rides on Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard to his fundraising activities. Bike MS rides support the National MS Society, which provides funding for cutting-edge MS research and provides services and programs for people living with MS. “Her diagnosis was a real awakening for our family. We wanted to learn more – and do more. We've been very lucky that Nina's MS hasn't meant huge changes for her, but we know that's not the case for others and we know that could change for her at any time. I ride and my wife, Melissa, is a part of the SAG support team for many of the rides. As a family, we're committed to doing whatever we can to fuel research and help find a cure.”
Great Maine Getaway
Whether you’re looking for a destination weekend away with friends or family, you are an experienced cyclist or a novice, we have a great choice of routes for you ranging from 25 to 100 miles. Rider check-in begins Friday night with accommodations available at UNE. You can also just join us bright and early Saturday morning before hitting the road. When you return, enjoy the festivities with food, music and massage. The
fun continues Saturday evening with an awards ceremony and dinner. On Sunday, enjoy a full breakfast and then head out for another beautiful ride. When you return, top off a great weekend with a Maine lobster at our traditional Lobster Bake. Whether you are an individual rider, part of a team, or a family looking for a destination weekend supporting an important cause, the Great Maine Getaway is the perfect event for you!
metro health
Be Inspired.
Get Connected.
Walk MS. W
alk MS
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY, GREATER NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER
connects people living with MS and those who care about them. When you participate in this community event, the funds you raise give hope to the more than 2.3 million people living with MS worldwide. We’ve been walking since 1988 and to date have raised more than $870 million to support life changing programs and cutting-edge research. Register now, connect with others, and start fundraising today at nationalmssociety.org.
Save the Date April 18, 2015 Brunswick Brewer Camden Kennebunkport
April 19, 2015 Augusta
Sept. 12, 2015 Caribou
April 25, 2015 Lewiston Portland
Sept. 27, 2015 York
Ready
to Ride? Bike MS: Great Maine Getaway 2015 Aug. 8-9, 2015 University of New England Contact Information: Sue Tidd 1-800-344-4867 BikeMSGNE@nmss.org For more information or to register, visit bikeMSgne.org
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 21
metro
wellness
Surf Lessons
Life Lessons Surfing becomes a metaphor for life.
E
ver want to
reach back to younger versions of yourself and give yourself a swift kick? I feel this way when I think about the fact that my younger, childless self did not even exercise regularly. I had so much time; what was I doing? (No really, what did I actually do before I had a family and a full-time job?) Another thing I regret about my younger self is that I used to be a watcher. Specifically, when I lived in California for four of my postcollege years, everyone there surfed and
BY EMILIE BRAND THROCKMORTON
from my children for more than two nights, and I was a nervous wreck. Of course, I savored the week away from my busy life, the relaxation of the waves, the sunshine, and the blended margaritas and fish tacos, but that was all just gravy compared to what else I got. Learning to surf was challenging, but not impossible. By the end of the first day, I surprised myself by getting up on my board and actually surfing. At that moment, I said goodbye to the version of myself that ever would have been watching from the beach. At the end of
Surfing became a metaphor for life, for the delicate balance between ease and effort. You want to let the wave take you, but you also need to know when to paddle harder for a good wave, and how to use your leg strength to find your balance on the board. In life, you can’t be passive and just float along, but you also don’t want to constantly fight against that which you cannot control. Bend before you break. Find a deeper breath and a stronger stance than you knew you had. In life, we meet waves that might crash over us, but we also learn to find our sweet spot that
PHOTO: RYAN MCVAY/THINKSTOCK.COM
I savored the week away from my busy life, the relaxation of the waves, the sunshine, and the blended margaritas and fish tacos, but that was all just gravy compared to what else I got. I never tried it. I assumed I couldn’t do it. I would go to the beach and watch my brother and his friends surf, but I never once picked up a surfboard. Fast forward 15 years to when I lived in Maine, had two young kids and a full-time job. I was up to my eyeballs in laundry and to-do lists. Now that I didn’t have any free time, nor was living a mile from the California beach, I really regretted letting those years go by without ever surfing. Not having even tried to surf became symbolic of a bigger identity crisis; I craved adventure in my life that went beyond clever ways to get my kids to eat broccoli. I wanted to feel like a brave, wild woman. On a particularly mundane winter day, a friend forwarded information to me about a writing contest hosted by a women’s surf camp in Sayulita, Mexico. I threw caution to the wind and entered. Lo and behold, I won a week of surf instruction. All of a sudden, I was going to Mexico for a week, by myself, to learn to surf. At that time, I had never been away
each day of surf camp, which included an hour of yoga and two sessions of surfing, I rinsed off in the outdoor shower and then sat down on the veranda of my villa overlooking the ocean, my muscles humming, my shoulders warm with sun, and my mind totally quiet. Mostly I just really liked who I was in Mexico. For that one week, I wasn’t a mom or a teacher. I was a surfer, chatting with the locals in Spanish. What I took home with me from that week was a forward momentum in my life that has stayed with me. I was gently pushed, by the waves under my board, the coaches, and myself. I was encouraged to be brave. I paddled hard and trusted the instructors to nudge me into waves bigger than what I would have chosen for myself, and then stood up on them and rode them all the way in.
puts us in the perfect position to catch the next wave when the right one comes. Maybe the younger version of myself wasn’t ready to surf, or didn’t need it as much as I did once I was older and had gained so much more responsibility. I still frequently think of my surf week. I have a photo in my office of a woman paddling out on her board, with this quote: “I remembered that the real world was wide and that a varied field of hopes and fears, of sensations and excitements, awaited those who had the courage to go forth into its expanse.” – Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre.” It turns out my draw to surfing might have been less about the surfing than it was about where I am in my life: stronger, more capable, ready to paddle out a little farther, to stand up to whatever wave may roll in.
EMILIE BRAND THROCKMORTON is a mom and runner who co-chairs the English Department at Bangor High School and writes the blog One Mom in Maine.
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24 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
PHOTOS: (CLIMBING WALL) AISLINN SARNACKI/BDN FILE PHOTO; (WALKING & BOOTS) NEONCI & BIRUTE VIJEIKIENE/THINKSTOCK.COM
feature story
Don’t be a
Stick in the
Avoid cabin fever by getting out and about this spring. BY NATALIE FEULNER
Mud M
ud season
in Maine is not defined by the calendar, but by a feeling – an emotional and physical state of inbetween. The no longer frozen ground is a muddy mix of melting snow and the thermometer is unpredictable. Families, weary of confinement from the previous months of subzero temperatures often begin searching for ways to spend free time out of the house to avoid cabin fever. Sound familiar? If this is you or your family every March, have no fear. We’ve gathered the top cabin-fever busting destinations within driving distance that young and old are sure to enjoy.
Learn something new:
Maine Discovery Museum • Bangor Three floors of hands-on fun await young learners at the Maine Discovery Museum in Bangor. Children can explore exhibits about everything from fossils to the human body. The museum also offers age-specific programming and special seasonal activities.
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feature story
Northern Maine Museum of Science • Presque Isle Looking for something to do that won’t break the bank? Located at the University of Maine Presque Isle at Folsom Hall, this free museum is home to two substantial natural history collections that include both marine and freshwater shells and local forestry specimens. The museum is open anytime the campus is open, although special tours can be arranged by contacting Curator Devin McCartney at 207-768-9482.
Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine • Portland Similar to the Maine Discovery Museum, this playspace offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities for children and
families, as well as special programing. The museum includes a dress up area sure to inspire hours of dramatic play, a fully-functioning kid-sized town and a special toddler area for the youngest visitors. Admission is $9 and the museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Tuesday through Sunday at 142 Free St. in Portland. For more information, visit kitetails.org or call 207-828-1234.
Fields Pond Audubon Center and Nature Store • Holden Located just outside of Bangor, the Fields Pond Audubon Center includes a nature center, pond and sanctuary featuring trails that wind through fields, wetlands and forests. The center holds several year-round programs and camps for children and adults. The main property and trails, located at 216 Fields Pond Road in Holden are open free of charge everyday from dawn to dusk. The nature center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit www.maineaudubon.org or call 207-989-2591.
Kate Erickson of Bucksport pushes with all her might to hide a fossil in the sand of the Dino Dig exhibit at the Maine Discovery Museum in Bangor on Thursday. Kate’s brother Noah digs them up behind her.
26 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
International Cryptozoology Museum • Portland Do you believe in Bigfoot? After a trip to this unique museum, you just might. Cryptozoology is the study of animals such as the Loch Ness Monster, whose existence is disputed. This small, but intriguing museum is one-of-a-kind, and offers visitors a look at these creatures through everything from hair samples and other bodily materials to newspaper clippings. In 2014, Time Magazine named the museum one of the Ten Weirdest Museums in the World. The museum is located at 11 Avon St. in Portland and is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, and Wednesdays through Sundays. Admission is cash only, $5 for children under age 12 and $7 for adults.
Burn off energy:
Get Air Portland • Portland Side-by-side and vertical wall trampolines – it doesn’t get much better than that, especially during mud season. The indoor trampoline park opened earlier
PHOTO: BDN FILE PHOTO BY LINDA COAN O’KRESIK
Visit 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $7.50 and the museum is located at 74 Main St. For more information, visit mainediscoverymuseum.org, email info@mainediscoverymuseum. org or call 207-262-7200.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF CHARLIE BAKER
A new trampoline park called Get Air in Portland gives kids of all ages a place to jump for fun and health. An hour of jumping burns 1,000 calories.
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PHOTO: BDN FILE PHOTO BY AISLINN SARNACKI
Yuna Shibata of Tokyo, an exchange student attending Bangor High School, rock climbs for the first time at Maine Bound Adventure Center during a Bangor High School Outing Club trip in 2013, at the University of Maine in Orono.
28 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
feature story this year and offers a fun space for people of all ages to work out and have fun doing it. Located at 921 Riverside St. in Portland, admission is $14 for the first hour and $8 for the second. Visit getairportland.com or call 207-245-6443 for more information and hours of operation.
Indoor Rock Climbing • Multiple Locations Several gyms throughout Maine offer families a chance to “get high” rock climbing indoors. University of Maine campuses in Presque Isle and Orono offer rock walls and classes for all ages and climbing abilities. Staff is on hand at both locations to offer assistance and equipment, including helmets and harnesses, is available. For more information about the UMPI gym, call 207768-9772 or visit umpi.edu/gentile-hall/ rock-wall. For more information about the Orono gym located at the Maine Bound Adventure Center, call 207-5811794 or visit umaine.edu/mainebound. Maine Rock Gym in Portland also offers more than 5,000 square feet of rock climbing surfaces. For hours, rates and more information call 207-288-2521 or visit merockgym.com.
Indoor Skateboarding • Bath Bath Youth Meetinghouse and Skatepark, also known as “The Park,” is Maine’s largest indoor skatepark offering more than 5,000 square feet of practice space for skateboarders, inline skaters and bikers, as well as lessons. The park includes obstacles like ledges and rails along with movable boxes and other obstructions so skaters can create their own courses. Located at 4 Old Brunswick Rd., the park is open Tuesday through Saturday and admission ranges from $5 to $14. For more information, call 207-443-8750 or visit bathskatepark.com.
Bringing Power to the People of Maine for Generations
“Growing up, I remember my dad responding to outages in the middle of the night. He was a real hero to me. Now I get to work alongside my father. That’s a pretty good feeling.”
Maine Winter Sports Center • Caribou The Maine Winter Sports Center offers a variety of programs designed to keep Mainers active all year long. Activities include cross country skiing, paddle sports and hiking among others. The center is located at 552 Main St. in Caribou. For more information, call 207-492-1444 or visit mainewsc.org.
Luke Ireland Bringing Power to Maine Since 2007
www.emeramaine.com Bangor_Metro_Energy_Issue_Nov_2014.indd 1
10/10/2014 4:41:01 PM
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feature story
Pedestrians walk by the Robert Indiana sculpture "Seven" outside the Portland museum of Art.
Yoga Instructor Abby Brennan will lead families through a session of storytelling and yoga postures Saturdays in March from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Gilsland Farm. Families are invited to come early or stay after the program and enjoy the farm’s “Discovery” room. Registration is encouraged and the cost per class ranges from $10 to $15. The farm is located at 20 Gilsland Farm Road in Falmouth. For more information or to register, call 207-781-2330 or visit maineaudubon.org/events.
Connect with your creative side
Smudge Art Studio for Kids • Freeport Smudge is a budding artist’s dream come
30 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
true. The art studio is catered toward children ages 2 to 9 years old and offers a relaxed setting filled with supplies from glitter to paint. And while the studio does offer some guided projects, children are encouraged to use their imagination. Located at 15 School St. in Freeport, Smudge is $15 an hour during drop-in times. For more information, visit smudge4kids. com, email art@smudge4kids.com or call 207-865-0272.
University of Maine Museum of Art • Bangor The museum offers visitors a chance to explore the permanent collection of more than 3,800 works of art and additional rotating exhibits. This month, make sure not to miss Global Changes: The Dance of Contingencies by Barbara Putnam and Deborah Cornell; King & Clown by Dan Estabrook; and Infra/ Structure by Rachel Hellmann, all of
which run through March 21. Admission to the museum, located at 40 Harlow St. in Bangor, is free for 2015. More information is available at umma.umaine. edu or by calling 207-561-3350.
Portland Museum of Art • Portland What better way to discover Maine’s maritime history than through art? This month at the museum, check out a new exhibit called The Coast & the Sea, featuring 52 marine paintings and several maritime artifacts dating from 1750 to 1904. The museum’s permanent collection is also worth checking out and includes work from Pablo Picasso and Claude Monet. Located at 7 Congress Square in Portland, the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday. Admission ranges from $6 for children to $12 for adults.
PHOTO: BDN FILE PHOTO BY TROY R. BENNETT
Nature Yoga for Families • Falmouth
rooted in ME A Cloth Diapering Guide
for Dummies Newbies PHOTO: BROOKEBECKER/THINKSTOCK.COM
Considering cloth diapers? Here’s a been-theredone-that guide from a mom in the know.
W
hen I first
BY NATALIE FEULNER
started looking into using cloth diapers, blogs, reviews and online forums all seemed Greek to me. I had no idea what the difference between pockets and all-in-ones was, and what in the world is a prefold? But over time, I learned to speak cloth diaper and have put together a handy key for anyone brave enough to give them a try:
Flats: Flats are the “old fashioned” cloth diaper. They are large squares of absorbent material and can be folded in any number of ways but require fastening and a waterproof outer layer. They are easy to hand wash and dry very quickly.
Prefold: Prefolds are thick soakers that can be folded into thirds and laid inside a diaper cover. They do not need fasteners if used with a fitted cover and dry very quickly.
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rooted in ME Pocket: Pocket diapers have an absorbent insert of micro-
SO MANY CHOICES! SO MUCH FUN!
The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan offers so many choices all summer long, and the common thread is that every program will bring incredible growth, skills, friendship, and fun. Set on a 200 acre campus along the shores of Branch Lake in the beautiful Maine Wilderness, our Sleep Away Camp, Adventure Seekers, and Leaders School give boys, girls, and teens of all ages and interests a sense of adventure, belonging, and purpose.
fiber, bamboo or hemp stuffed into a pocket created by a waterproof cover with a fleece liner sewn inside. Since the insert comes out, these dry fairly quickly – covers usually only take a few minutes in the dryer while the inserts take about an hour.
All-in-One: These diapers’ absorbent layers are covered in fleece and attached to a waterproof outer layer. They are the closest to disposables since there isn’t any stuffing, pinning or folding required. Since these are all sewn together, it takes awhile for them to dry – about an hour in the dryer then flipped inside out and dried for another 15 to 30 minutes.
Fitteds: These diapers are made out of super absorbent cloth and are similar in shape and size to disposables, but are not waterproof so they need a cover. These dry fairly quickly since they are in two parts.
Hybrids: These diapers have reusable, waterproof covers that can be combined with either disposable inserts (usually biodegradable) or absorbent, washable cloth inserts.
All-in-Twos: These diapers consist of a waterproof shell
SLEEP AWAY CAMP For children ages 8-15, our program provides age appropriate activities to foster self-exploration, challenge, and achievement.
The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at
CAMP JORDAN
with an insert that either snaps or lays in the bottom. Since the inserts can be removed, users can change out the insert and reuse the outer shell if it isn’t soiled. These dry very quickly since the inserts are small and the covers dry within minutes.
One Size: These diapers can take a baby from birth to potty training and have snaps or gussets that change the size.
Sized: These are like disposables in that they are designed for specific weights and allow users to find good fits for their baby without additional bulk.
Wet Bag: Wet bags can be used to store used diapers until
ADVENTURE SEEKERS
LEADERS SCHOOL A pedal-to-the-metal week of excitement for teens, this program has been formulated by experts in the fields of experiential learning and group development.
32 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
This exciting and one-of-a-kind camp fills up quickly. Call 207.941.2808 or visit campjordan.org to register today.
People often ask what type of diapers I’d recommend and I usually don’t have an easy answer because they all work best for different reasons on different babies. So, in short: If you need convenience, go with an all-inone. Need quick drying but don’t want to mess with prefolds? Check out the pockets or two-in-ones. Want a good deal? Go for the two-in-ones. Cloth Betsy Lundy, owner of Maine es Diaper Company, demonstrat tral on her daughter Mabel at Cen Street Farmhouse in Bangor.
PHOTO: BDN FILE PHOTO BY KEVIN BENNETT
Our wilderness expedition program is geared towards 8-19year olds who are looking for a challenging and life changing outdoor experience.
wash day. They have a fabric outside and waterproof inside and keep the stink in.
Cloth Diapers
No Longer
Illegal in
Maine Awhile back, a law was on the books prohibiting parents from sending children to daycare in cloth diapers, unless they had a doctor’s note explaining a medical reason for not using disposables. Never mind if the center director or teachers were OK with it or that diapers of today look nothing like those of yesterday, and more parents around the state are using cloth, it was against the law. However, in a quiet display of solidarity with cloth users throughout Maine, the state legislature passed a bill last year allowing parents and guardians to request that a child care provider use cloth diapers for their child IF it is allowed by the center. The new law (LD 803, Section 1) also regulates the handling of said cloth diapers, requiring centers to “place soiled cloth diapers in a sealed bag or container and return the soiled diapers to the parent or guardian.” So, roc k on clot h diaper e nt h u s i a s t s .
NATALIE FEULNER is a journalist and “semi-crunchy” cloth diapering momma to a rambunctious toddler named after a county in California. She blogs about her adventures in parenting and Maine at www.rootedinme.bangordailynews.com.
Wilson Electronics
Cell Phone Signal Booster
Improve signal to your cell phone or cellular data card, giving you maximum signal performance for rural or remote locations. Boosters available for use in car, boat, or in-building. Systems utilize outside antenna, inside antenna, power adapter, and cellular amplifier.
For more Rooted in ME blog posts, visit rootedinme. bangordailynews.com
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 33
castine then & now
34 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Left: The steamer City of Richmond docks in Castine harbor. This photo: Training ship The State of Maine and schooner Bowdoin offer Maine Maritime Academy students unique training opportunities.
The view driving into downtown Milo.
Historic Castine Just an hour drive from Bangor and Ellsworth, Castine’s historic schools, museums and more are worth a visit.
STORY & PHOTOS BY RICHARD SHAW
C
HISTORIC PHOTOS COURTESY OF CASTINE HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MAINE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
astine and history
go together like hand and glove. Sitting on a scenic peninsula at the end of Route 166, the Hancock County town of roughly 1,360 residents has long been known for its museums, schools, white homes and churches that overlook the rippling waters of the Penobscot and Bagaduce rivers. March is a quiet month, when pubs like Dennett’s Wharf, where guests can shoot dollar bills onto the ceiling, are shuttered for the winter. Other businesses, such as the Compass Rose Bookstore and Café, are reopen-
ing. But the community’s historic grandeur is worth savoring all year long. A half hour’s drive from Bucksport, and an hour from Bangor and Ellsworth, Castine is close enough for a day’s visit while still removed from Route 1’s swirling traffic. Champlain visited the future town in 1604, followed by John Smith in 1614, and in 1629, a Plymouth Colony trading post was established. The town’s namesake, French Baron Jean Vincent de St. Castin, settled in the late 17th century and married a Tarratine woman. Wealthy summer visitors began arriving in the more stable post-Civil War era. The four flags of the town’s occupying nations – England, France, the www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 35
castine then & now
Left: Eaton’s Boat Yard is a full service boat yard. Below: A historic photo of the Steamer Golden Rod at the wharf in Castine. Below left: Castine’s historic village square. Right: The bank block building. Castine’s beautifully restored houses and commercial buildings line the streets.
town stats First Incorporated: Feb. 10, 1796 Population: 1,362 (2012 estimate) Elevation: 30 feet above sea level Area: 20.01 square miles Land: 7.78 square miles Water: 12.23 square miles
36 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Notable People: • Joseph d’Abbadie de Saint-Castine, military officer • Noah Brooks, author, confidant of Abraham Lincoln • Clark Battle Fitz-Gerald, sculptor • Robert Lowell, poet • Mary McCarthy, author, critic, activist • Philip Booth, poet, educator • Peter Davis, filmmaker, author, journalist • Don McLean, singer-songwriter • Hezekiah Williams, U.S. congressman
Netherlands, and the United States – appear throughout town. There’s even a Four Flags gift shop, located next to the T&C Market, home of the village’s only grocery and gas pumps. State historian Earle Shettleworth said the entire Castine peninsula is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Its lush trees, fine homes, and village green, with its church and school houses, and the handful of old business buildings and wharves, create the feeling of an earlier time, he said. Town Manager Jimmy Goodson likes Castine’s sense of community and pride of place, “Adams School is an exceptional learning place,” he said, “our enduring stand of elm trees provides a tribute to our environmental dedication, and Maine Maritime Academy reminds us of our connection to the sea.” In 2013, the sea again put Castine on the map when the nation’s first floating wind turbine was connected to the grid off the town’s coastline. “Castine’s maritime heritage has
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 37
castine then & now
Check out our interactive map of Castine at bangormetro.com
38 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Tall ship Hermione, a replica of the frigate on which embarked for the colonies in 1780 to offer French support during the American Revolution.
The Pentagöet Inn, built in 1894 is Castine’s oldest, original “summer hotel” and still welcomes guests of Penobscot Bay.
morphed into a sailor’s dream destination,” said Rick Armstrong, chair of the Economic and Development Committee, “providing easy access in its midcoast location to … Penobscot Bay and the beautiful coast.” Witherle Memorial Library, along with the Yacht Club, Golf Club, and seasonal tours of the training ship State of Maine, attract visitors. Fort George, built by the British in 1779, and Fort Madison, dating to 1812, when the British returned, are favorite sites. A Historical Society exhibit chronicles the Rev-
PHOTO: (HERMIONE) COPYRIGHT FRANCIS LATREILLE / ASSOCIATION HERMIONE
HISTORIC SUMMER PLANNED FOR CASTINE This summer promises to be memorably historic in Castine. Fireworks, marching bands, and a boat parade will herald the arrival on Bastille Day (July 14) of the tall ship Hermione, a replica of the frigate on which the Marquis de Lafayette embarked for the colonies in 1780 to offer French support during the American Revolution. Sally Chadbourne, administrator of the designated host Castine Historical Society, said the “busy and exciting” season’s activities will involve the entire town and many visitors. The Hermione is expected to arrive on July 14, after stopping at major East Coast ports. Ship deck tours will be given on July 15, along with waterfront lectures by maritime experts, before the vessel departs on July 16. More information is available on Association Hermione’s Facebook page “Hermione Visit to Castine,” and you can follow them on Twitter @CHS Hermione. Also featured this summer will be a related Historical Society exhibit on the
olutionary War’s disastrous Penobscot Expedition, and the Wilson Museum
original Hermione’s Revolutionary War era reconnaissance mission to Penobscot Bay in 1780, housed in the Abbott School on the Castine town common. Visitors also can enjoy a permanent exhibit on the disastrous Penobscot Exhibition of 1779. Next door is the newly restored Grindle House, due to open with a related exhibit. The Society will host a July 5 staging of “The Tye More Binding,” a dramatic presentation of the letters of John and Abigail Adams, written and produced by local historian Lynn Hudson Parsons. On Aug. 4, Michael M. Greenburg, author of “The Court-Martial of Paul Revere: a Son of Liberty and American’s Forgotten Military Disaster,” will deliver a lecture. The Wilson Museum at 120 Perkins St., operated by the Castine Scientific Society, also is open seasonally and worth a visit. Its website is wilsonmuseum.org. Visitors can also log on to the Maine Maritime Academy website, Mainemaritime.edu, for information about more exhibits.
bands perform Waterfront Wednesday concerts on the dock, and the Town
“Castine’s maritime heritage has morphed into a sailor’s dream destination.” –Rick Armstrong features artifacts and related buildings. Dyce Head Light and the Pentagoet Inn are fun places to stop. Warm-weather guests can grab lunch at Castine Variety, Markel’s Bakehouse, or The Breeze takeout. Area
Band performs weekly at the Town Commons and Wilson Museum. It’s always wise to phone ahead or go online before planning a visit. Some places are open only by appointment in the colder months. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 39
metro sports
is Yet To Come
H
usson College
men’s basketball coach Warren Caruso has been a part of the school’s program since 1984 – his first semester as a student. After four years as a player, he graduated and became an assistant coach before moving up to head coach after the 1994 season. Having “sat in all of the seats” on the team allows him to understand their perspectives of the game, school and life. But this year is special for the Eagles. It’s the first time in Husson history that the program is nationally ranked in NCAA Division III. During their first game of 2015, Husson was battling against the Maine Maritime Academy Mariners and the score was 36-34 at the end of the first half on the Eagles’ home turf. The score didn’t sit well with Caruso. For the Bangor native, it wasn’t just another win on the line, it was another step toward postseason and would mark his 400th win as head coach. The Eagles paced forlornly toward the locker room. Now was the time to regroup, talk about the holes in their game and how best to patch them up. A majority of this year’s team is composed of underclassmen, something that can play a factor in the team’s chemistry on the court, according to Caruso. 40 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
“The thing about this year’s team is it’s so young, we’re really just starting to mature a little bit and get an understanding of what it’s like to be a college basketball team,” Caruso said. “You look at last year’s team, you have 14 guys on the roster and 10 of them are juniors or seniors. The roster has totally flipped this year, you’ve got 10 freshman or sophomores and four juniors or seniors.” But it’s not just about the age and experience of the players. Caruso acknowledges that Maine is a basketball state and that much of the team’s talent comes from homegrown players. “Over the years we’ve got tremendous high school coaches across the state that work hard at developing their players,” Caruso said. “That’s where we begin our recruiting, is with the Maine guys. We want the best Maine athletes in our program; the problem is there’s so much competition for them we don’t get them all.” Sophomore Mitch Worcester of Washburn, playing his first year with the team, agrees with Caruso. He has risen through the ranks within the state and has firsthand experience playing with and against different players. This allows instate players a more in-depth knowledge of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. “Maine’s really big into basketball,” Worcester said. “If you’re a good player
Husson men’s basketball battling toward NCAA berth. BY CAMERON PAQUETTE
in the state of Maine, everybody knows that player.” “People know who we are when we come here,” said Oakland point-guard Jordan Holmes. “People recognize [us] being local.” Caruso also sees the blending of Maine’s best with players from out-ofstate as a strength both on and off court. “Typically we blend Maine kids that come from rural areas with student athletes from out of state that probably come from more urban populations, and they discover how much they have in common coming from distinctly different backgrounds,” Caruso said. Waterbury, Connecticut native Trevon Butler, who is also one of the team’s three captains, is a particularly talented example of the diversity that Caruso looks to bring to his team when recruiting inand out-of-state players. A North Atlantic Conference Division III player of the week twice this season, he is among the top five players in the league for steals, rebounds per game and points per game. He scored a buzzerbeating 3-pointer over Scranton during a December game in Las Vegas, helping the team take the lead at the most crucial moment and secure its national ranking. “I humble myself. I credit my team. To be a leader you have to have a supporting
PHOTOS: (COACH HUDDLE) LARRY RADLOFF/D3PHOTO.COM; (MOORE) MONTY RAND/HUSSON UNIVERSITY
Our Best Basketball
cast and they are the real leaders that help me just be the voice and the leader that I am,” Butler said. As the second half is about to begin, the Eagles start to trickle back onto the court. They’re down by two points, but this doesn’t stop them from smiling and joking with each other as they warm up. They know they can do better. “This is probably the most competitive team I’ve contributed to,” said team captain and Hampden native Jacob Moore. “We’ve got a lot of guys who come from winning programs, they know how to play winning basketball. So to put a bunch of guys like that in the same room it leads to success.” Moore, who graduated from Hampden Academy in 2010, is the son, grandson and older brother of basketball players, which helps explain his love for and dedication to the sport. Moore was sidelined during the 2013-14 season due to a broken hand he sustained during practice. “I wanted to be out there and help the team, but it kind of gave me perspective and showed me how important the game is. You can’t do anything, you just have to watch so you get a different view,” Moore said. Fast forward to Jan. 10 and the Eagles were going blow for blow with the Mariners until there were nine minutes left, at which point the score was tied at 55. Moore, in his returning season, led the charge, sinking a 3-pointer and motivating the Eagles into a lead that grew to 71-64 with two minutes remaining. The Mariners couldn’t breach the gap before the buzzer. When asked how it felt to achieve his landmark 400th victory, Caruso gave credit to his team for the success that he feels they share. “It initially makes me feel old,” Caruso joked. “[I’m] humbled by this success and the mark of 400 wins comes from a lot of peoples’ contributions, not just mine. I’m very cognizant that I’m part of a larger entity.” Caruso is optimistic that the steady upward trend of every season leading up to now can be continued as the team strives toward its goal for a berth in the NCAA Div. III tourney. “Success is ahead of you if you want it, you just have to go out and grab it,” Caruso said. “I think our best basketball is yet to come.”
Team captain and Hampden native Jacob Moore.
STATS
HUSSON MEN’S BASKETBALL SCHOOL: Husson University / Eagles COACH: Warren Caruso, head coach since 1994. Recently earned his 400th career win as head coach ABOUT THE TEAM: 10 freshman and sophomores, four juniors and seniors TEAM ACCOLADES: FIrst time being ranked nationally in NCAA Division III
metro sports
New Life for
Hockey in Brewer New ice arena owners a score for Brewer. STORY & PHOTOS BY CAMERON PAQUETTE
G
eorge Bishop
has played hockey for more than half a century and, like many who fall in love with the game at a young age, he has no intention of giving it up anytime soon. “Usually if you start playing, you’ll play it for life. It’s one of those games you keep playing,” said Bishop, 57, of Brewer. He grew up with the game – four ice rinks within 20 minutes driving distance of his childhood home in Rhode Island. His daughter, Janessa, caught the hockey fever at age five, around the same period in her life as her father had. Bishop,
Alfond Arena or Sawyer Arena in Bangor. For the Bishops, who are active within the Brewer Youth Hockey program, the loss of the rink would have been a devastating blow for the community. He couldn’t let that happen. “People wondered why the city didn’t buy it, but we didn’t have the funds to do that. When George stepped forward it was an answer to our prayers,” said Brewer Deputy Economic Development Director Nicole Gogan. The Bishops purchased the property in September 2013 and began a list of renovations. As co-owners of the Brewer-based
“Hockey keeps you in shape and it’s a lot better than going to the gym.” –George Bishop excited by the thought of his daughter sharing his passion for the sport, decided to make an ice rink behind their home by flooding an area of the property. Unfortunately for George, the winter weather in 2006 wasn’t very cooperative. “That year it snowed every night for two weeks and I was out there every night shoveling, snowblowing, [and] flooding [the rink],” Bishop said. “I came [inside] and I told my wife, ‘I’m shutting the rink down! I can’t take it anymore, I’m going to sleep!’ I said, ‘The next rink I get is gonna have a roof on it.’” Linda Bishop warned her husband to be careful what he wished for. Fast forward to 2013 and the Penobscot Ice Arena in Brewer was on the verge of foreclosure. Concerned parents were wary of bringing their children to the dirty, worn down rink. Area high school teams preferred to play at the University of Maine 42 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
disaster restoration company Penobscot Cleaning Services, the couple was able to set about the daunting list of repairs. Over 1,200 man-hours and many thousands of dollars later and the Penobscot Ice Arena has been revitalized. The Hampden Academy Broncos, along with other local organizations, have made a return to playing at the facility. Pro Ambitions, the official hockey camp of the Boston Bruins, also will be returning in 2015 after one-year hiatus from the arena in 2014 due to a lack of participants. Bishop still aims to outfit the rink with a new chiller and dehumidification system in the coming years to keep the ice cold, while still allowing spectators to remain comfortable. According to Bishop, the two demographics that have seen the greatest uptick in recent times have been girls and adult men. Both groups have been warmly
accommodated by the rink, with four additional men’s league teams signing on since some renovations were complete, which included a full-size women’s locker room for the women’s league players. “It keeps you in shape and it’s a lot better than going to the gym,” said Bishop, who plays with the Penobscot Pounders, a local men’s team. Like Bishop, rink manager Randy Marsh also has two young daughters who play, and he credits them with piquing his interest in the sport. “I think it’s because of the University of Maine women’s team, that gives them something to shoot for. These days there’s more opportunities for girls in hockey than there is for boys,” Marsh said. The rink also offers a number of programs geared toward the casual ice skater, such as the Learn to Skate program in which Brewer Youth Hockey coaches teach kids the basics of skating. Perhaps the most eye-catching addition to the Penobscot Ice Arena programming has been the Frozen Fridays Fun Light and Sound Skate during which festive multi-colored disco lights dance with skaters across the ice to the latest pop hits. “It’s kind of reminiscent of an old roller rink with the disco lights, but it’s an ice rink,” Bishop said. “It kind of reminds me of when I was a kid.” For a full schedule and list of programming, visit the newly remodeled Penobscot Ice Arena website at penobscoticearena.org.
Watch video clips from Penobscot Ice Arena at facebook.com/bangormetro
what’s happening SUN
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3 Enjoy the Vancouver Chamber Choir at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Bangor page 44
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Watch the Bolshoi Ballet live from Moscow at The Strand page 44
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PHOTOS: (MAINE SCIENCE FESTIVAL) BDN FILE PHOTO BY GABOR DEGRE; (FLOWERS, SLIPPERS, & BASKETBALL) FIRINA, RICHARD SEMIK, & TAR_HEEL_ROB/THINKSTOCK.COM
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Camden Garden Club’s 100th Birthday Party page 44
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Visit Penobscot Theatre to experience “End Days” page 44
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19 Maine Science Festival comes to the Cross Center page 44
The Moscow City Ballet brings Swan Lake to the Collins Center, Orono page 44
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Have a laugh at Spectacular Event Center’s Comedy Show page 45
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Harlem Globetrotters come to Bangor page 45
Turn the page for details & more of
What’s Happening this month! Visit us at www.bangormetro.com to check out what’s going on and add your event!
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 43
THEATER
March 3, 2015 National Theatre’s “Of Mice and Men” Waterville Opera House, Waterville Golden Globe winner and Academy Award nominee James Franco (127 Hours, Milk) and Tony Award nominee Chris O’Dowd (Bridesmaids, Girls) star in the hit Broadway production “Of Mice And Men,” filmed on stage by National Theatre Live. 9:30 a.m. $15 Adults, $13 Seniors. 873-7000 • operahouse.org
MUSIC March 8 The Bolshoi Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet The Strand, Rockland Captured live from Moscow, this HD broadcast brings Shakespeare’s timeless story to life through breathtaking choreography and music. With its famous melodies, rhythmic variety, and universal theme, this story of impossible love remains an all-time favorite. 594-0070 • rocklandstrand.com
March 3 Vancouver Chamber Choir St. John’s Episcopal Church, Bangor The Vancouver Chamber Choir is Canada’s outstanding professional vocal ensemble. Based on the Pacific Coast in British Columbia, conductor Jon Washburn and his 20 singers are noted for their diverse repertoire and performing excellence. 7 p.m. $35. 581-1755 • collinscenterforthearts.com
March 8 BSO: Russian Masters Collins Center for the Arts, Orono The BSO tackles two pillars of the repertoire: Rachmaninoff’s lush and romantic Piano Concerto No. 3 and Shostakovich’s powerful Symphony No. 6. Pianist Norman Krieger joins us for the Rachmaninoff in what is sure to be a performance to remember. 3 p.m. $19–$45. 581-1755 • collinscenterforthearts.com
March 4 Camden Garden Club’s 100th Birthday Party Camden Public Library Enjoy birthday cake and other refreshments at this 100th birthday party. 2 p.m. camdengardenclub.com
March 12–29 End Days Bangor Opera House Sixteen-year-old Rachel Stein is having a bad year. Her father hasn’t changed out of his pajamas since 9/11, and her mother’s new religious fervor means dinner is often late. Plus, the Apocalypse
March 14 Bangor Ballet Presents “The Little Mermaid”
is coming Wednesday. Her only hope is that Stephen Hawking will save them all. Finding the intersection between science, religion, and suburbia, this fresh new work is both poignantly redemptive and hilarious. penobscottheatre.org March 13 NT Live: Skylight Collins Center for the Arts, Orono On a bitterly cold London evening, Kyra Hollis (Carey Mulligan) receives an unexpected visit from her former lover, Tom Sergeant (Bill Nighy), whose wife has recently died. As the evening progresses, the two attempt to rekindle their once passionate relationship only to find themselves locked in a dangerous battle of opposing ideologies and mutual desires. 7 p.m. $18. 581-1755 • collinscenterforthearts.com March 14 MET Opera Live: La Donna Del Lago The Strand, Rockland The Grand, Ellsworth Collins Center for the Arts, Orono This performance is broadcast live in HD from New York’s Metropolitan Opera. Joyce DiDonato and Juan Diego Florez star in this performance conducted by Michele Mariotti. 12:55 p.m. 594-0070 • rocklandstrand.com 667-9500 • grandonline.org 581-1755 • collinscenterforthearts.com March 14 The Little Mermaid Center Theatre, Dover-Foxcroft Bangor Ballet dancers perform this much-beloved story of a mermaid who longs to walk on dry land. 4 p.m. 945-3457 • bangorballet.com March 17 Swan Lake: Moscow City Ballet Collins Center for the Arts, Orono This ballet company is the outcome of the recent reforms in postSoviet Russia. Its success outside of Russia makes it one of Russia’s most extensively touring ballet companies. Their beautiful performance of “Swan Lake” is not to be missed. 7 p.m. $28–$38. 581-1755 • collinscenterforthearts.com
44 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
PHOTOS: BDN FILE PHOTO BY KEVIN BENNETT
EVENTS
what’s happening March 31 Harlem Globetrotters 2015 World Tour
March 20–22 Maine Science Festival Cross Insurance Center, Bangor The Maine Science Festival will offer Maine residents and visitors of all ages a diverse slate of activities to pique your curiosity, delight your senses, and underscore the notion that science is everywhere. Fri.4–7 pm; Saturday 8 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. 478-9548 • mainesciencefestival.org March 21 & 22 The Little Mermaid Gracie Theatre, Bangor Bangor Ballet dancers perform this much-beloved story of a mermaid who longs to walk on dry land. Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 4 p.m. 945-3457 • bangorballet.com March 21 & 22 2015 Sportsman’s Show University of Maine at Presque Isle Over 75 exhibitors from throughout Maine, New Brunswick, Labrador, Quebec, and greater New England will be present. Demonstrations, food, kids activities, and more. Saturday 9 a.m.– 5 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $5 adults; free for kids ages 5 and under. pifg.org March 28 BSO: Disney in Concert– Tale as Old as Time Collins Center for the Arts, Orono Join the Bangor Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Lucas Richman, for a magical journey into storytelling and music as only the timeless tales of Disney can evoke. 3 p.m. $28–$51. 581-1755 • collinscenterforthearts.com March 28 The Little Mermaid Bucksport Middle School Bangor Ballet dancers perform this much-beloved story of a mermaid who longs to walk on dry land. 7 p.m. 945-3457 • bangorballet.com March 28 Comedy Show Spectacular Event Center, Bangor Spend an entertaining evening with star comedians Louis Ramey and Will Noonan. Tickets include appetizers; cash bar available. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.;
show starts at 8:30 p.m. $15. 941-8700 • spectaculareventcenter.com March 28 Overboard Camden Opera House This renowned five-member a cappella vocal ensemble from Boston will perform in Camden. 7 p.m. $25 adult; $10 ages 21 and under. baychamberconcerts.org March 29 Amernet String Quartet with Phillip Silver Minsky Recital Hall, UMaine Orono The Amernet String Quartet has
garnered worldwide praise and recognition as one of today’s exceptional string quartets. 3 p.m. $35. 581-1755 • collinscenterforthearts.com March 31 Harlem Globetrotters 2015 World Tour Cross Insurance Center, Bangor The iconic Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the Cross Insurance Center with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. 7 p.m. $23–$75. crossinsurancecenter.com
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 45
food file
Slow Cooker Corned Beef in Beer
W
A local blogger brings a St. Paddy's Day classic to a whole new level. STORY BY JEFF MCINTOSH | PHOTOS BY EMILY MCINTOSH
ith St Patrick’s Day
around the corner, I started to think about Irish-themed dinners for the occasion. I read somewhere a while back Corned Beef on St Patrick’s Day is not an Irish tradition, instead an American re-invention of tradition. Like so many things we think of as “old world,” times changes, people change, and tastes change. Certainly Corned Beef would have been considered a luxury item in our great grandparents' day. It is almost a luxury item today as a recent trip to the grocery store proved to me! I do not have any significant Irish bloodlines in my family. My father’s family is Scottish, but as far as I can tell, calling themselves American since our founding fathers were signing the Declaration. My maternal grandmother was a 1st generation Scottish immigrant who came over when she was just a little girl. I am operating under the old saying “Everyone is Irish on St Patrick’s Day!” I plan to do my best to make the Irish proud with a decidedly American take on Corned Beef dinner. So now I have a 3.5lb Corned Beef 46 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Brisket in my possession with dreams of a big Irish-themed dinner and enough leftovers for a Reuben or two. The idea for incorporating locally made beer came from Emily. “Why don’t you make a stew with Geaghan’s beer in it?” It was a glorious idea – but she was still holding out hope for a beef stew, not a Corned Beef dinner. My planned turned to using a Slow Cooker to cook the Beef in beer all day and enjoy a minimally labor-intensive feast that night. With the holiday falling on a Tuesday this year, it made perfect sense. When cooking with wine you often hear experts repeating, “Cook with what you would drink.” Applying that logic to my Corned Beef and beer idea made the choice of which beer easy: Geaghan’s Refueler. An American Wheat beer might not be everyone’s first choice but being our favorite beer, made locally, by friends who are Irishman is enough for me! Emily left to run errands, and I politely asked her to pickup two growlers of The Refueler. In the name of research, we would have to extensively sample the ingredient we planned on using. Once satisfied, I was ready to start cooking.
Step 1
I start with chopping 5-6 carrots, one large onion, and two whole garlic cloves and placing into slow cooker. From my stash of garden dried herbs I put in rosemary, thyme, celery leaf, and a bay leaf. Next in, goes a sprinkling of black pepper. Before the Corned Beef goes in the slow cooker, I rinse it off under cold water. The beef is salt cured and I have found not rinsing it will make the sauce and veggies too salty. You can always add salt later, but you can’t take it back out.
Rosemary, thyme, celery leaf, and bay leaf from Jeff 's dried stash of garden herbs.
Step 2
With the beef in the slow cooker, it is time to pour in The Refueler.For me, it took about 4 cups of beer to almost cover the beef and fill the slow cooker. I set the temperature to low and let it cook all day. Once home from work, 9 hours had past and the beef was done. I removed meat and veggies to a platter to rest and scooped out 4 cups of the beer broth and transferred to a pot on the stove to make a gravy.
The meat simmering in Geaghan Bros. The Refueler, an American Wheat beer.
PHOTO: (CARROTS) PETER ZIJLSTRA/THINKSTOCK.COM
Step 3
In the pot was the 4 cups of the beer sauce. I turned the burner to medium high, mixed 2 tablespoons flour with a 1/4 cup water, and poured it into pot whiles whisking. I let gravy cook and boil for 7-8 minutes (stirring every minute or so) then removed from heat to allow to cool and thicken. You will want to taste at this point to see if it needs salt but mine didn’t.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 47
food file Step 3
Nothing left to do now but slice up our Corned Beef dinner and enjoy our Irish themed feast. I will serve the Corned Beef and veggies with mashed potatoes on the side as another avenue to enjoy the gravy. Mashed potatoes are required for any large meal like this or else I risk a child and wife dinner mutiny! We wish everyone a great St.Patrick’s day dinner too!
JEFF and EMILY McINTOSH live with their three children in Brewer. They love growing their own food and they really love eating it, too! For more great recipes from the McIntosh family, visit bloggingwithapples.com.
Slice the meat against the grain for perfect serving.
FOOD FILE
SLOW COOKER CORNED BEEF IN BEER Prep time: 20 mins / Cook time: 9 hours Serves: 6 INGREDIENTS 3.5 lb corned beef brisket, rinsed 5 carrots, washed and cut into chunks 1 large yellow onion, cut into chunks 2 cloves garlic 1 teaspoon dried celery leaf (or substitute 1 rib of diced celery) 1/ teaspoon dried rosemary 2 1/ teaspoon dried thyme 2 1 bay leaf 1/ teaspoon black pepper 4 4-5 cups of favorite beer to cover beef 2 tablespoon flour 1/ cup water 4 INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a slow cooker place, carrots, onion, garlic cloves and lay corned beef on top. Sprinkle in celery leaf, rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and pepper. 2. Pour in beer to cover. Cover with lid and set to low.
48 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
3. Cook for 8-9 hours until beef is almost fall apart tender then remove beef and veggies to cool. 4. Scoop out 4 cups of the beer sauce and transfer to pot on stove. 5. On medium heat bring sauce to a boil.
6. Mix 2 tablespoon flour with 1/4 cup water until smooth and pour into boiling sauce while whisking. Continue cooking while whisking 6-8 minutes until sauce thickens, remove from heat and transfer to gravy bowl. 7. Slice Corned Beef against the grain and serve with gravy. Enjoy!
Planning a wedding? Join us for a special vendor fair and food sampling March 28 in our Grand Ballroom from 1-3 p.m.
Everything. Right where you need it.
With 4,000 sq ft of divisible meeting space and an executive boardroom, the Hilton Garden Inn is the ideal setting for groups of 2 to 250. The hotel features top-of-the-line audiovisual equipment, a 24-hour business center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and indoor hot tub and pool. Our restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, accepting reservations from guests and the general public. Whether you’re joining us for a meeting or wedding, we offer a variety of catering options to help ensure your day is a success. With an onsite team of professional event planners, you can count on us to handle each detail with expertise!
Contact our sales department: 207-262-0099 or 1-877-TOPHILTON Kimber.Parker@hilton.com Erinne.Magee@hilton.com
Visit us on the web at www.bangor.hgi.com www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 49
kitchen confidential
W
hen Eli Irland
was 18 years old, he left Maine to explore the world. After studying at a culinary school in Colorado, he ventured to the West Coast, where he refined his skills at innovative kitchens. While working in Los Angeles, the ambitious chef was featured on Food Network’s competitive cooking show “Chopped,” where he made it to the final round. But Irland’s ties to the Pine Tree State remained strong, and he returned home after a decade of exploring. At the Brooklin Inn, a quaint bed and breakfast on Eggemoggin Reach, Irland crafts dishes made exclusively with local or organic ingredients, inspiring him to keep the menu fresh and in season.
Eli Irland, Age 31
Chef at Brooklin Inn in Brooklin Where did you study or apprentice? I studied at Paragon Culinary School in Colorado Springs but learned most of what I know cooking in Los Angeles and through independent study. Once I decided to become a chef, I was in LA and worked in any kitchen I could find where they were doing interesting things.
Coast to Coast From Food Network’s ‘Chopped’ to chef at The Brooklin Inn, Eli Irland is making a name for himself. BY KAYLIE REESE
50 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
What brought you to Maine? I grew up in Wayne and left when I was 18-years-old to explore the world. After being gone for over 10 years, I felt the pull to come back to where I will always feel is home: Maine. You made it to the final round on the Food Network’s competitive show “Chopped.” Tell us about your experience. Chopped was a blast. Though it’s obviously produced as drama first and food second, I’d go back on the show in a heartbeat. I’ve always loved a good adrenaline rush, and cooking that show was as jolting as any motorcycle or double-black diamond.
PHOTOS: (ELI IRLAND) STEPHANIE SCHREDDER; (FOOD PHOTOS) COURTESY OF THE BROOKLIN INN
Showing Off His Cooking Chops
What are some of your earliest memories of cooking? My cooking journey has a very common first chapter – I started out fighting with siblings over who gets to stir the chocolate chips into the cookie dough and then would let all of the heat out of the oven because I couldn’t help myself from peeking.
Is there a turning point in your career that solidified your decision to become a chef? It was never really a point but a gradual change in my vision of my own future. My mom always told me I should love what I do and I should be excited to go into work every day, so I decided to make a career of what had always been a hobby. I left for a new start to a new life in Colorado. What do you consider to be your pivotal career move? After a series of kitchen jobs in LA, working in better places and with succeedingly more responsibility, I got a sous chef job working for Kevin NaPier at The Proper. It was my first shot at managing a legitimate fine-dining kitchen. Kevin’s approach to cooking was inspiring. He taught me how to run a kitchen and let me conceptualize and execute dishes, which was a great experience for me – I was free. I was the chef at Proper for a year before moving
Left: Chef Eli Irland. This photo: Baked oysters.
On the Menu
Feeling hungry? Here’s a small sample of what to expect at The Brooklin Inn from Chef Eli Irland.
Appetizers OYSTERS, BAKED OR HALF-SHELL MUSSELS WITH A DIJON CREAM SAUCE
Entree
Dessert
CHICKEN FRANCAISE, BOILED POTATOES, PEA SHOOTS, LEMON BUTTER SAUCE
CRÈME BRULEE, BLUEBERRY COMPOTE BLUEBERRY BREAD PUDDING, MAPLE DRIZZLE
SCALLOPS, SEARED RARE, MUSHROOM RISOTTO, BABY CARROTS
LOCAL FRUIT IN PASTRY
BISTRO STEAK, STEAK FRIES, CARAMELIZED ONIONS, SEARED BACKYARD TOMATOES
CHOCOLATE SEDUCTION, A FLOURLESS DARK-CHOCOLATE TART
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 51
kitchen confidential back to Maine to join The Brookin Inn. What processed food can you not live without? Humpty Dumpty Dill Pickle Chips – though life might go on without them. Is there a food or ingredient you would cook with but would never eat? There is nothing I would never eat, but mackerel comes close.
more info THE BROOKLIN INN 22 REACH ROAD, BROOKLIN 207-359-2777 Hours: Open Tuesday–Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to close until May; open additional hours during summer
Specialties: Local, organic and eclectic American food First-timer tip: Try something you normally wouldn’t. Trust us! Sample menu item: Braised Happy Town Farms Lamb Shanks with Polenta Cakes and Caramelized Onion Ragout
ORONO
BANGOR/BREWER
BANGOR/BREWER
BANGOR/BREWER
ELLSWORTH
Finelli Pizzeria
We do gluten right! Try our thin crust, brick oven pizza and our incredible sandwiches with fresh homemade bread today! 12 Downeast Highway, Ellsworth 664-0230 • finellipizzeria.com
52 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Looking for a great place to eat out? Visit bangormetro.com for even more ideas!
Your listing could be on this page Get the word out! Advertise in Bangor Metro’s Kitchen Confidential dining guide. Email Stacy Jenkins at sjenkins@bangordailynews.com
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 53
per spectives “Enhjørning,” a piece formed from 150-year-old barn sill, found wood, cord wood and old nails.
Wesley Reddick Discarded paper, discarded lead roof flashing, scrap wood and old nails make up “Many Are the Wounds to a Sensitive Soul.”
“2000 Nails” made of 150-year-old barn sill section and 2000 nails. 54 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
“Walter's Getaway” uses hay rake wheels, wagon wheel halves, ship nails, 150-year-old hemlock beams, porcelain electrical insulators, steel parts, wrought iron and a tool box.
This “Refrigerator Door Table,” made from a repurposed refrigerator door, discarded furniture legs and old cherry board, is on display at the Belfast Library.
“Split Ends” features a 150-year-old barn sill.
Starting out in illustration at the Massachusetts College of Art, it became apparent, despite receiving honors in design, that Wesley Reddick’s affinity for the three dimensional world suited him best as a sculptor rather than a draftsman. After a jaunt at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Art in Copenhagen, he began a voracious self-guided trek to build everything that posed a reasonable challenge – from mechanical kinetic sculpture to prototype miniatures and on to largescale museum display cases, private built-ins and public art installations.
For several years, he was a preparator in the Boston area, working for private clients and institutions, including The Fuller Museum of Art, Tufts University Gallery, and The Boston Society of Arts and Crafts. Reddick continues to design and build custom cabinetry and millwork, is a founding partner at Åarhus Gallery in Belfast where he lives, and regularly rows a dory in the Penobscot Bay with his wife Willy. Reddick’s current sculptures explore his philosophical and physical relationships with the human facility to make things, and our endless capacity for wonder and invention. For information, visit aarhusgallery. com and wesleyreddick.com. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 55
savvy seniors
AARP Maine communications director Jane Margesson and Dale Flewelling picking green beans on the Houlton farm.
Friends S With
Like These New film spotlights extraordinary story of community philanthropy. STORY BY JANE MARGESSON PHOTOS BY JOHN MARTIN
56 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
ometimes
there are stories of compassion and creativity that come to our attention which are so remarkable, they deserve to be recognized on film. Working with awardwinning filmmaker John Martin, AARP Maine recently produced “With Friends Like These,” a new short film spotlighting the extraordinary story of a community program in The County dedicated to feeding the hungry in Maine by donating their own locally grown and harvested produce. Friends of Aroostook, now in its sixth year, is the brainchild of retired Houlton businessman, Dale Flewelling, who recognized the need to help seniors in his community and throughout Aroostook, many of whom are finding it hard to make ends meet. “We know there is a real need for people in our area as well as across the state,” said Flewelling. “There are many people among us who don’t have enough food to feed themselves or their families. By working together with community partners, volunteers and local businesses, we can tackle this problem and make a big difference.”
One in five Mainers do not have enough food to eat each day. Many are seniors who, through no fault of their own, are struggling to put food on the table. Often they must make difficult choices between eating, taking their daily medications, paying rent or heating their homes. FOA’s efforts help thousands of needy residents every year by donating 120,000 pounds of food and fresh produce to the region’s poorest communities with a focus on senior hunger. Steve Farnham, director of Aroostook Agency on Aging, explained how some of the food is distributed. “One way we see the benefit of FOA’s work is through our Meals on Wheels program,” he said. “Most of our clients are homebound seniors, yet they can get this gorgeous produce delivered right to their door straight from the garden. Fresh, nutritious produce, some of which is organic, would normally be all but impossible for our clients to obtain.” One of the most remarkable aspects of FOA is its ability to adapt and grow, all the while creating new ways for community
partners and businesses to join in the effort. For example, Johnny’s Selected Seeds, a local produce, farming equipment and supply company, matches FOA’s purchases dollar for dollar. Another new initiative is the partnership with the local sheriff’s office and the Maine Department of Corrections. A few carefully screened, minimum security inmates are now members of Flewelling’s team who come out each day to harvest the crops. This has already proven to be a wonderful way to engage these young men in meaningful work while teaching them new farming
skills and connecting them to the project and their community. Flewelling hopes that FOA will serve as a model for similar programs. “This works well as an agricultural model,” he said. “Where you have farms, you have possibilities to address hunger.” To learn more about Friends of Aroostook, visit friendsofaroostook. com. To see the film, go to aarp.org/me. This is an unforgettable story that everyone should see. JANE MARGESSON is the AARP Maine communications director.
Local Bangor resident Jim Tobin and AARP Maine State Director Lori Parham picking beans on the Houlton farm.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 57
real estate
Welcome
Home
This beautiful Orrington home is move-in ready. Take a look inside this family home up for sale right now. Lisa Caron, Realtor® Realty of Maine 207-745-5568
Pick of the Month: 51 Deer Run Drive, Orrington What do you love about this home? “Everything! It’s a gorgeous home on a great lot, secluded but within easy distance to Bangor and Brewer.” 58 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
Opposite page: The home is privately located at the end of a cul-de-sac. Clockwise from top left: The home boasts a welcoming foyer, 10-foot ceilings, radiant heat, and two fireplaces. French doors lead to the red cedar deck from the formal dining room and family room. The kitchen offers granite counter tops and a Jen-Air grill. The master bedroom includes a spa-like en suite bathroom with walk-in closet.
CALLING ORRINGTON HOME... PROPERTY DETAILS:
MLS# 1201949 51 Deer Run Drive, Orrington Details: 4 bedrooms, plus large bonus room over garage. 3-car heated garage, walk-out basement.
COMMUNITY DETAILS: Population: 3,733
Schools: Center Drive School offers pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. Orrington students have their choice of high school.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 59
real estate BANKS
Is Your Home Protected?
Rethink Your Insurance
Printing in One Color Reverse: When printing in one color the name and logo must be knocked out of one of the corporate colors, PMS 202C red or black.
Your home is the foundation of your family. If you don’t know the answers to the following questions, you may have gaps in your coverage. Give United Insurance a call to ensure peace of mind.
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Have you recently made home improvements or additions?
MADE IN MAINE
Are you aware that homeowner insurance does not cover floods?
MOVING COMPANIES
105 Godsoe Road • Bangor • 947-0183 171 High Street • Belfast • 338-0900
60 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
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PENOBSCOT COUNTY
INSURANCE
Dixmont • MLS#1139568 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, openconcept 1995 gambrel with hardwood, in-law apartment, and 26 acres including woods and pond. $239,900 Linda Gardiner Better Homes and Gardens The Masiello Group Office: 207-478-5841 lindagardiner@masiello.com
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Edinburg • MLS#1158106 Endless possibilities for this 37,000 sq ft, 3 story commercial building with 4 garage bays. 25 mins to Bangor and incredibly low taxes! $124,900 Jessie Daniels Realty of Maine Office: 207-991-8980 jdanielsbangor@gmail.com
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WALDO COUNTY
Waldo • MLS#1201667 Private hideaway with 4BR, 2.5 BA on 62.4 acres, only minutes to Belfast. Relax in the 3-season room or hot tub at the end of the day. $234,900 Lisa Caron Realty of Maine Office: 207-745-5568 lisacaronrealtor@gmail.com
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will remind them how much you care all year long.
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NEW BRUNSWICK
By Phone. Call 207-990-8219
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Winterport • MLS#1139054 In-town restored farmhouse with new windows, re-shingled, lots of antique features include lighting, crown moldings, wide pine floors, built-ins. Seasonal water views. $118,000 LuAnne Adams 107 Main Street, Belfast Cell: 207-322-5930
Ocean Front Property For Sale Ocean front lots on Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada starting at $40,000. 165 to 400 feet of shorefront, 1 to 2.5 acre lots available. Owners will finance with 20% down. Interior Island lots also available starting at $10,000. Please call 207-227-0145 or email flagg.david@gmail.com.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 61
maine
woods & waters
Last May, a robust gathering of paddlers set off from the shores of Moosehead to relive Thoreau’s third expedition.
for the
Bucket List Thoreau-Wabanaki Trail should be tackled before visiting the Pearly Gates. BY BOB DUCHESNE
M
cific location, such as fish, fiddleheads, or birch bark. A few place names recall cultural activities that took place. Long before the Europeans arrived, the Maine forest was a bustling place. Henry David Thoreau made his first foray into the Maine woods in 1846. He paddled the lakes west of Millinocket with Penobscot guide Joe Attean, then followed the West Branch of the Penobscot River to where Abol Bridge now stands along the Golden Road. Although Thoreau never reached the summit, his partial ascent of Katahdin inspired prolific prose about its virtues and majesty. In 1853, Thoreau returned to Maine, this time taking a steamer across Moosehead Lake to begin his paddle from Northeast Carry. The West Branch of the Penobscot provided the route,
Thoreau’s accounts of these journeys became iconic literature and helped define Maine’s rough-hewn character for seven generations. Tribes also moved seasonally along the water routes, traveling to summer and winter camps, wherever there was the best food and shelter. Many of the place names in the Wabanaki tongue describe river features, usually as they would appear to a paddler going upstream. Other place names describe resources to be found in a spe62 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
and Thoreau’s party made it as far north as Chesuncook Lake. In 1857, Thoreau made his longest trek into the forest, accompanied by Penobscot guide Joe Polis. Starting from Northeast Carry, the expedition continued past Chesuncook, and skipped up the chain of lakes to Eagle Lake. From there, the party paddled down through
PHOTOS: BDN FILE PHOTOS BY GABOR DEGRE
Another One
y bucket list keeps growing. Every time I knock something off the list, two more take its place. I still haven’t canoed the entire Allagash. For 30 years, I’ve been able to free up enough time to do the paddle, but never enough additional time to shuttle the vehicles. It’s a long drive through the Maine woods. So it is with considerable chagrin that I realize I must also conquer the Thoreau-Wabanaki Trail before passing through the Pearly Gates. Maine is a waterlogged state. Its rivers and lakes have been travel routes since antiquity. Wabanaki tribes have inhabited the region for millennia, and though the tribes were not immune from quarreling with each other, most of the time the rivers were trade routes.
Chamberlain and Telos lakes, negotiated Webster Brook, and eventually reached Grand Lake Matagamon. The East Branch of the Penobscot carried them back to Indian Island in Old Town – a circuit that kept Thoreau in the woods for 11 days. The three expeditions stirred Thoreau’s pen. His accounts of these journeys became iconic literature and helped define Maine’s rough-hewn character for seven generations. A decade ago, a group called Maine Woods Forever took on the task of creating an official Thoreau-Wabanaki Trail, mapping out a canoe route that would let adventurers recreate the magic described in the Thoreau journals. The trail was officially launched in Greenville in 2007 on the 150th anniversary of Thoreau’s final journey. Last May, 150 years after Thoreau’s accounts were published, a robust gathering of paddlers set off from the shores of Moosehead to relive his third expedition. Once again led by Penobscot guides, this group of adventurers included outfitters, journalists, and a motley crew of thrill seekers bent on following the exact route. Over 16 days, the canoe campers faced rain, cold, headwinds, and muck – or as Mainers call it, normal. The long winter of 2014 led to late ice-out, high water, tough rapids, and muddy portages. The trail route is there, well established and well mapped, waiting for me and waiting for you. The University of Maine bookstore sells the map. Buy it at the store or on its website. I figure if Thoreau could do it three times, I should be able to manage it once. But maybe not all at once. Thoreau did not have the luxury of throwing his Old Town Tripper on the top of the Subaru and driving to virtually any point along the route. Perhaps I will enjoy the majestic views of Katahdin, the spirit of the Penobscot’s West Branch and the solitude of the East Branch, in bits and pieces. Thoreau famously said, “We need the tonic of wildness. We can never have enough of nature.” From this passage, I deduce that he did not go in black fly season. BOB DUCHESNE is a local radio personality, Maine guide, and columnist. He lives on Pushaw Lake with his wife, Sandi.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 63
Special Section Featuring Northern Maine
Pretty in Pink
PHOTO: COURTESY OF TAMC COMMUNICATION AND DEVELOPMENT
W
orld Cancer Day
was recognized in February around the globe as a day of raising cancer awareness, prevention, detection and treatment, and local organizations in Aroostook County weren’t to be left out. The Aroostook Medical Center (TAMC), ACAP/Healthy Aroostook and Daigle Oil Company collaborated to stress the importance of having regular life-saving mammograms, while Crown Emergency Care rolled out its new pink ambulance to promote cancer awareness in The County. The idea of a pink ambulance originated from Crown Emergency Care’s own ranks. Supervisor Walter Mosher recalls having discussions with Crown staff about creative ways to differentiate the service they provide, while showing a softer side of emergency care. Several ideas were contributed regarding the look of the vehicle, but the EMTs quickly agreed on a cancer awareness theme. “This really stemmed from a desire to make a difference in our community and create awareness effectively,” said Mosher “We asked ourselves, ‘How can we be hugely impactful with this?’ We decided this was the most visible way to extend this important message to people. Going forward, we want this to raise awareness of all types of cancer.” The crew was behind the idea all the way.
by Bangor Metro
Pink ambulance rolls out in The County as cancer awareness reminder.
“This ambulance paint scheme was created to represent those among us who have battled and are battling this dreaded disease. It’s a public icon representing a private struggle that many of our friends, family, and co-workers battle every day,” said EMT Jeffrey Kiser. “Its purpose is to promote hope and happiness, and remind everyone that even in the midst of
which, says McNamee, could cost lives. “Mammograms do save lives. That has been proven,” said McNamee. “Early detection of breast cancer usually means less invasive treatment, sometimes less surgery and more options for treatment, as well as a quicker recovery.” McNamee went on to emphasize that the American Cancer Society recommends
“Its purpose is to promote hope and happiness, and remind everyone that even in the midst of unfortunate situations, we can turn sad situations into something good.” –EMT Jeffrey Kiser unfortunate situations, the kind that we at Crown experience on a daily basis, we can still strive for the future and turn sad situations into something good.” When asked about other possible ambulance designs in the future, Mosher replied, “We have a few ideas, including a potential homage to our veterans. We’re excited for change and are always looking for inspiration.” According to Lana McNamee, lead mammographer at TAMC, the hospital found eleven cases of breast cancer in 2014, with several additional biopsies pending. Recent conflicting reports over the necessary frequency of screening have resulted in some women electing to go two or more years without a mammogram, a decision
annual mammograms after 40, and even earlier for individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer. She also stressed that screening should be ongoing, because three quarters of breast cancers are found in women fifty years and older. Those who have questions should not hesitate to talk with their providers. It is the hope of Mosher, McNamee, and the TAMC family that when community members see the pink ambulance drive by, it will not only grab their attention, but also serve as a reminder to reflect on their efforts to improve their own health in the interest of prevention. At the very least, it may serve as a simple reminder that it’s time to schedule that screening or preventive visit with their provider. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 65
Officials, patients and community members gather to celebrate the $2 million gift from Next Generation Foundation to support TAMC’s expanded Cancer Care Center.
Gift of Hope
C
ancer patients
in northern Maine will benefit from a $2 million gift announced earlier this year by officials at The Aroostook Medical Center (TAMC) in Presque Isle. The grant from the Next Generation Foundation establishes a $1 million endowment for cancer patients to ensure they can access services, supporting
ing the award. “The grant will help ensure that area residents have access to the most advanced cancer treatment options close to home. In addition to the physical and technological advances that we are making, this provides a huge boost to our ongoing efforts to remove barriers to accessing care that many of our patients face.” Getman announced the gift in a new cancer treatment atrium that is
“I don’t know how I would have been able to manage my treatments had this service not been here.” –Betty Dumond transportation, and other costs associated with receiving care that are otherwise not covered and present financial hardship to those who cannot afford it. The other $1 million is designated to support efforts currently underway to establish a new Aroostook Cancer Care Center, which includes state-of the-art radiation therapy technology, an expanded chemotherapy infusion area and new integrated software. “We all know someone who is affected by cancer. This major gift will benefit our friends and neighbors battling cancer throughout The County for generations to come,” TAMC President and CEO Sylvia Getman said in a press release announc66 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
still under construction and slated for completion in June 2015. The chemotherapy infusion space will be part of a renovated and expanded Aroostook Cancer Care Center at TAMC’s A.R. Gould Memorial Hospital campus on Academy Street in Presque Isle. “I can attest to the significant impact this grant will have on our ability to deliver the right care, at the right place, at the right time. This will positively impact cancer outcomes for our patients. Improving cancer outcomes is the ultimate goal all cancer providers strive to achieve,” said Dr. Arjun Sood, the lead oncologist at TAMC’s Aroostook Cancer Care.
Nearly 250 patients each month are receiving medical oncology and hematology services through Aroostook Cancer Care. For many, this requires multiple trips to the center each week and hours sitting in a treatment chair. In addition to the oncology and hematology patients, TAMC sees numerous other cancer patients from throughout Aroostook County who require radiation therapy as part of their treatment. It is estimated that radiation therapy is used in 60 to 70 percent of cancer patients at some time during the course of treatment. TAMC provides the only such service north of Bangor. Betty Dumond of Portage shared her story with those gathered when the grant was announced. She explained that her treatment included multiple diagnoses and treatment over the years for stage four breast cancer, lung cancer, a brain tumor, and thyroid cancer. Dumond spoke about her challenges and how receiving services close to home made a significant difference in her recovery. “I am here today because of the love and support of my family, and the wonderful care provided by my other family here at Aroostook Cancer Care. We are all so very fortunate to have this level of care close to home. I don’t know how I would have been able to manage my
PHOTO: COURTESY OF TAMC COMMUNICATION AND DEVELOPMENT
Aroostook Cancer Care Patients to benefit from $2 million gift to TAMC from Next Generation Foundation.
treatments had this service not been here. I needed my family and friends nearby to support me,” said Dumond. The Next Generation Foundation was established in 2000. The essence of its mission is to improve health, education, and societal support for the most vulnerable populations of Maine. Specific interest areas include children, elderly and the displaced; basic human needs; education; and programs that enhance human health, social equality or Maine’s economy and workforce. Until 2013, the Next Generation Foundation awarded small grants to nursing homes, community organizations, health support organizations, schools, hospice programs, and social change organizations. With a new infusion of funds from the founder’s estate, the Foundation launched a large grants program in 2014. They received 726 letters of inquiry from which they selected 115 to submit full proposals. From May to November 2014, they made 80 site visits and are in the process of awarding grants to 79 organizations, including TAMC. “This is an investment in The County, but more importantly in its people,” said Gene Lynch II, chair of the TAMC Board of Trustees. “With this $2 million gift we take the next step in bringing the most technologically advanced and comprehensive care that has ever been available to cancer patients in our area. Our vision to be the best rural healthcare organization in America is certainly attainable – and with significant support, such as this, from those who acknowledge the fine work of our caregiving team, we are well on our way.” Lynch also noted the impact of the work on the new Aroostook Cancer Care Center on the local economy. He acknowledged the numerous local companies that are working on the construction and renovation project. The general contractor for the project is A & L Construction of Presque Isle. Soderberg Construction of Caribou will complete the Earth Work. Subcontractors working on the project include, County Electric of Caribou, Aroostook Plumbing and Heating of Presque Isle, Sullivan’s Floor Covering of Caribou, and Staples Construction of Caribou. The concrete work for the linear accelerator is being completed by Hogan Construction of Houlton.
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www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 67
GreenGUIDE 2015
Craft a Greener Home
IMAGES: FUSE & JOHAVEL/THINKSTOCK.COM
Eco-friendly kids’ craft ideas
Finding a Way to Zero
Middle school students lead the charge
Healthy House Energy evaluation tips
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 69
Finding a Way to Schools, businesses and cities in Maine work to eliminate waste. STORY BY NATALIE FEULNER PHOTOS BY SARAH RUBIN
70 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
E
Zero
arlier this year,
Gorham Middle School seventh graders MacAllister Moss, Paige Hume and Connor Donnelly, all 12, found themselves elbow deep in trash. They separated out recyclables, taking note of the most common items like paper and plastic containers that could be recycled, but were mindlessly placed in trash cans. “We found that a lot of students
throw things away that aren’t meant to be thrown away,” Connor said. “A lot of times it was paper that had been used, but could still be recycled.” The students are part of Sarah Rubin and Sherry Coyne’s team of seventh graders focused on finding sustainable measures the school can take to help reduce waste and eventually become a zero waste campus. “Zero waste” by definition goes beyond simply recycling soda cans and old
green guide
Gorham Middle School students display their zero waste project.
newspapers. Advocates say it is an ethical, economical and visionary change in which all discarded items are recycled or reused. For example, a successful zero waste campus could add lunch food scraps to the garden as compost, send used printer paper to a recycling plant and classrooms could start turning in digital versions of school projects. But it is a difficult and involved process. “The zero waste concept is more like a guiding star rather than an im-
mediate or tangible goal,” Tom Twist, a sustainability officer at The Chewonki Foundation in Wiscasset, said. “It’s a pretty lofty goal as you can imagine … so it’s more of something that’s part of our distant horizon.” Nonetheless, municipalities, businesses and schools throughout the state and country have put zero waste efforts at the forefront of future planning, particularly as landfills reach capacity. “We’re having a major crunch as to
where we put our waste,” Twist said, adding it will take both legislative and behavioral changes to make any real difference.
A Lesson in Sustainabilit y
Four years ago, Chewonki wanted a way to take zero waste philosophies beyond its campus and share what experts there learned. Enter the Zero Waste Challenge. Middle school students take an assessment of what’s going into their trash, www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 71
green guide
Gorham Middle School students tour ecomaine, a waste management company based in southern Maine. 72 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
talk with school administrators and facilities staff about their findings and ask about recycling efforts already underway. Using that information, students come up with waste reduction plans and are judged and rewarded with monetary prizes. An overwhelming response to the contest surprised everyone.
need the money because changes are free or self-sustaining. During the last few years, Gorham students used the information they gathered to reduce waste throughout campus. Others at Westbrook Middle School created a website that can now be updated every year by the new crop of students
is on community ... sustainability is a way of taking care of our community, and it’s a great opportunity to combine a lot of the standards and curriculum goals into cohesive units,” Rubin said. “We’re using it to talk about social studies, math, science and in a way that helps kids see the world isn’t split into
Westbrook Middle School has reduced cafeteria waste by 94 percent. Custodians used to throw away an average of eight to 12 bags of trash a day but now average around a half to one bag a day. “We want the students to sort of think systematically about their waste stream,” Twist said. “Once they start looking at how things are currently working, some obvious things that can change become clear.” Prizes range in value from $250$1,000 and schools can win multiple years in a row. If they do, however, they are judged on implementation of their previous year’s plan. Winners must use the money to help implement their plan and keep the momentum going. But Twist said many schools find they don’t
working on the project. According to the Westbrook site, the school has reduced cafeteria waste by 94 percent since participating in the contest. Custodians used to throw away an average of eight to 12 bags of trash a day but now average around a half to one bag a day. In Gorham classrooms, zero waste projects permeate nearly every subject of learning. Rubin said it gives her 50 students a chance to see real world application of the state’s Common Core and Next Generation Science requirements. “One of our focuses in seventh grade
subjects, there’s a lot of crossover.” Twist said the projects also give students a sense of empowerment. “[It] shows them that they can do something, they can be really positive even at their young age and they can do something that even the adults aren’t doing,” he said.
Leaders in Business
Schools aren’t the only ones diving into sustainability. A few years ago, Tom’s of Maine was named the third greenest
Gorham Middle School students talk to their peers about the school’s recycling options.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 73
green guide brand behind Seventh Generation and Whole Foods in a survey by consumers. The natural-ingredient personal care products company has now aimed its sites on sending zero waste to the landfill per ton of product made at its Sanford plant by 2020, according to the company’s “Goodness Report” a website that allows consumers to follow the company’s efforts. Chewonki has also taken the idea of zero waste to their Wiscasset campus and recently switched garbage cans for zero waste stations. Each station looks the same and includes a recycling bin, a compost bin, a place for returnables and a tiny trash can labeled “landfill” instead of “trash.” They also recycle unusual items, such as batteries, electronics and potato chip bags.
Watch Tom’s of Maine discuss their recycling philosophy at facebook.com/bangormetro
“The waste thing has been a hard thing to crack into even at a place like Chewonki where I don’t have to convince anyone about the importance of it,” Twist said, explaining the stations go a long way to encouraging people to think about waste.
Changing a Town’s Mindset
Cities and towns nationwide also have jumped on the zero waste bandwagon. In Kittery, Commissioner Norm Albert is on a mission to change mindsets one person at a time. The city began looking into zero waste a few years ago and since then has increased efforts to redesign its waste recovery system to mimic natural systems found in the environment. According to documentation from the town, zero waste initiatives have the potential to generate new green jobs, decrease Kittery’s annual greenhouse emissions and reduce costs while increasing services provided to residents. Albert said the town is working
closely with the school department and promotes its efforts at events such as downtown festivals where staff talk with residents encouraging them to think about recycling, composting and reducing their amount of garbage. They also sell three types of waste bins, rain gutters and barrels for residents to hook up to their gutter system to collect runoff for non-potable purposes. At the schools, Albert says he hopes to reach out to Kittery’s younger generation in an effort to encourage them to grow into environmentally responsible adults. “The hardest part [about zero waste initiatives] is changing the thinking,” Albert said. “We figure, let’s get them while they’re young then it’ll be with them as they move up in the world.”
Looking Forward
Kittery doesn’t offer single stream or roadside pick up of recycling, however, they have a transfer system where residents can drop off recyclables free of change. One of Albert’s goals in coming
PHOTO: BDN FILE PHOTO BY TROY BENNETT
From left, Gorham Middle School students Paige Hume, Connor Donnelly and MacAllister Moss, all 12, are part of a sustainability program at their school.
74 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
years is to increase access and reduce the obstacles that may deter some from considering their waste. “I don’t know if the mindset is changed yet, but when you start talking about throwing away paper, that’s when everybody will wake up,” he said. “So if we can get them to get rid of one or two bags a week, some people may think before they throw it away.” In classrooms this year, Gorham students are planning to use an EcoMaine grant to buy bins that show what items can be recycled and make them more accessible around campus. They’re also encouraging teachers to think digital first and reduce paper usage. Lessons have trickled into the students’ homes and given them a sense of awareness. This month, they will give a presentation to the district school board and the community and eventually they hope to start a campus composting system. “We need the whole school and district on board in order to make it ingrained in our culture here in Gorham,” Rubin said. “That’s what will make this work.”
WANT TO TRY YOUR HAND AT ZERO WASTE? Environmental advocates at Chewonki say one of the first steps into implementing a zero waste program, whether it’s at a business or home, is to take a look at spending habits. Staff encourage people to evaluate purchases and ask themselves if they really need an item, or if it will make them happy in the long term. A few other suggestions for reducing your family’s waste include: • Buying goods that are durable, long-lasting, reusable and not harmful to the environment • Avoiding buying items with large amounts of packaging, buying in bulk when possible • Taking stock of the items you have and evaluating whether you actually need something or just want it • Questioning the relationship between owning things and personal happiness
WANT TO LEARN MORE? Check out the following blogs for some real-life examples of people implementing zero waste efforts in their own lives: >> The Story of Stuff storyofstuff.com >> Zero Waste Home zerowastehome.com >> My Zero Waste myzerowaste.com >> Trash is for Tossers trashisfortossers.com
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 75
green guide
Craft a Greener
Home Make your house more eco-friendly with easy, fun crafts and creative tips. BY DEBORAH WAY, FAMILYFUN MAGAZINE
Paper Monster YOU WILL NEED: • 2 large brown paper bags (for a sturdier creature, use paper lawn bags) • White and black paper • Glue stick • Masking tape Cut a large oval hole in one of the bags. Use a glue stick to attach a row of pointy, white paper teeth inside. Add eyes using black paper and the leftover white scraps. Open the second bag and slip the first bag over it, overlapping the edges an inch or two. Seal the seam with masking tape.
76 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
PHOTOS: LAURA MOSS, COURTESY OF FAMILYFUN MAGAZINE
Turn two grocery bags into a friendly monster that wants nothing more than to be fed paper scraps. Once it’s full, pack up the whole shebang and send it to the recycling center.
Snack Packs
Repurpose a milk or juice carton into a reusable snack container. For an ecofriendly trifecta, fill it with treats from your supermarket’s bulk bin! YOU WILL NEED: • Half-gallon milk/juice carton (clean, dry) • Colored/patterned duct tape • Adhesive-backed Velcro square Measure, mark and cut the carton so three sides are 4 inches tall and one side is 7 inches tall. Trim the tall side into a curve. Pinch the front and back panels together while tucking in the sides of the carton, as shown. Fold the curved flap over the front of the carton. Cover the outside with duct tape. Add the Velcro square to the inside of the flap and the front of the carton.
Time Out!
This cheerful whale can help reduce the length of your family’s showers by giving a friendly “ding!” when it’s time to finish up. YOU WILL NEED: • Whale template (download the template at familyfun mag.com/printables) • Timer • Blue felt
• • • • •
Red felt Cereal-box cardboard Black felt or googly eye Tacky glue Glue dots
Cut one whale shape from felt and a second backing shape from cardboard. Glue the shapes together. Attach an eye and adhere the whale to the timer with glue dots. On the timer dial, adhere a red felt arrow at your target shower length (time your shower, then try reducing it by a minute or two). Glue a matching arrow on the whale, pointing to zero.
Towel Tags
Be sure everyone knows whose towel is whose so that they stay on the hook and out of the laundry hamper longer. YOU WILL NEED: • Bath towel and wash cloth • Permanent, waterproof ink pad • Letter stamps • Cotton twill tape • Pinking shears • Iron • Needle and thread Using the stamps and ink pad, spell out a family member’s name onto the cotton tape. Trim the tape with pinking shears (to prevent fraying), so that there’s about 41/2 inches extra after the name and a few inches before the name. When the ink is dry, set it by covering the tape with a cloth and pressing it with a hot, dry iron. Fold both edges of the tape under about 1/4 inch and crease the folds with the iron. Sew the folded edges to the towel edge. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 77
A Healt hier Home
A
ccording to a
Demand Institute survey of more than 10,000 households, homeowners will spend $700 billion renovating their homes during the next five years. “The Housing Satisfaction Gap: What people want, But Don’t Have” survey identified energy efficiency, updated kitchens, and homes suitable for aging in place as the top three homeowners desires. According to the survey household energy costs have risen by 56 percent since 2000, outpacing all other house-
concerns and then offering specific solutions to address those concerns. “In the past, if someone wanted to, say, install new windows, we would just go and install the windows,” Trembley said. “Most contractors only look at the one thing they are asked to do. We now ask why do you want new windows? When talking with homeowners and drilling down to their real concerns we can target what is causing the problem in the home.” Trembley’s ah-ha moment came from personal experience about seven years ago.
When we do a kitchen or bath remodel for a homeowner we are doing it with energy efficiency and home comfort in mind. hold expenses. It makes sense then that 71 percent of surveyed homeowners say energy efficiency is very important. Another survey by Houzz in October 2014 showed that one out of five homeowners rated their homes unhealthy. There’s an emerging recognition among consumers that homes can have a significant impact on their health, but little awareness on how to create a healthy home. Keith Trembley, owner of Keith Trembley Home Solutions and Doctor Energy Saver, is not surprised by the findings in the recent homeowner surveys. He has geared his 35-year-old remodeling company over the past five years towards looking at the entire home as a system, listening to the homeowner 78 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
“My wife and I had purchased a lovely 1970s home. The one problem with it was the house was built on a crawl space that was very wet and muddy. We really hated to go down there to address sump pump or furnace issues. It was musty smelling and just plain disgusting,” he explained. “We noticed over the next year that we were getting sick more often. It took awhile before we attributed it to the basement conditions. After much research we addressed the crawlspace. We dried, waterproofed and insulated the crawl space. Its now a bright white dry, clean odor free space. We then insulated the house, and replaced the bath and kitchen vents. We noticed the difference immediately! We feel much healthier physically and mentally.”
The air in the home was improved dramatically, which is just basic science according to Trembley. “What’s in your basement, you breathe upstairs. Now we have a healthy home that is also saving us tons of money on energy costs.” A healthy home and energy efficiency go together, says Trembley. His employees have been trained and received many certifications in building science, air quality, mold testing and removal, lead paint removal, and waterproofing, among others. Trembley purchased the Doctor Energy Saver franchise three years ago and it has helped tremendously in his company’s pursuit of addressing the healthy home, comfort and energy efficiency concerns of homeowners. Doctor Energy Saver is the largest energy efficiency retrofit company in the U.S. “The training and expertise they give us on a continual basis is outstanding,” says Trembley. “It was a natural fit for us as we do over 1,050 jobs a year in customers’ homes, and completed over 12,000 jobs in the past decade. And now we can offer multiple solutions and products for every homeowner. Now when we do a kitchen or bath remodel for a homeowner we are doing it with energy efficiency and home comfort in mind.” For information about a whole house energy evaluation or a remodeling design and estimate, contact Keith Trembley Home Solutions at 207-827-4205 or ktrembley@keithtrembley.com or go to keithtrembley.com.
PHOTO: DAISY-DAISY/THINKSTOCK.COM
Start with an energy evaluation for a healthier, more energy efficient home. COURTESY OF KEITH TREMBLEY
green guide
Recycling Jewelry a Beautiful Thing
PHOTO: CAPTUREDBYAIMEE/THINKSTOCK.COM
R
ecycling
doesn’t have to be limited to obvious items such as bottles and cans. For decades, Striking Gold Jewelers in Ellsworth has recycled gold, silver and platinum jewelry to create custom pieces with unique stories. Jewelers, designers and owners Peter and Leesa Farnsworth have more than 56 years combined experience in the jewelry trade, and encourage customers not to let broken or out-of-style pieces clutter their jewelry boxes. Instead, make it useful again by bringing it to Striking Gold where they handcraft one-of-akind pieces from the metal and stones provided by customers. They can take old metal, melt it down and hand make new, stunning pieces of jewelry with what you already own. The process can keep precious moments intact, create new memories to help you move on from a bad experience, or sim-
ply make a family heirloom into something more your style. Either way, the end result is a custom piece of jewelry, in most cases, for much less than a new piece would cost since the material is being recycled. Peter Farnsworth has been handfabricating jewelry using hand tools for
more than 40 years. The only power tools used in the creation of each piece is the torch, used to melt unwanted jewelry down into raw material, the drill, and the polishing lathe, which brings the beauty of the raw material to life. For more information, visit the Striking Gold website at strikinggoldjewelers.com
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 79
last
word
The Politics of Garbage is
Garbage
Trash clean enough to be a main course. BY CHRIS QUIMBY
T
hat’s the guy
that eats the garbage,” remarked my young daughter. The conviction in her voice drew my curiosity. After my request for clarification, she informed me that someone had told her and my son that the gentleman at the transfer station orally consumes the trash that is left at the facility. Basing my answer on a reasonable assumption with no proof, I suggested to Emma that it was likely not the case. Although there are those around the world who live at levels of poverty that necessitate such activities, I’m quite sure this man was not one of them. But the prospect doesn’t seem as disgusting as it would have when I was her age. After all, visits to the transfer station, which I still nostalgically refer to as “the dump” are not what they used to be. In my town, compulsory recycling carries with it the prerequisite that I properly clean my cans and jars before dropping them off at the facility. As a result, on many Saturdays, some of my garbage has better hygiene than I do. Milk jugs must be separated from aluminum cans. Cans should be segregated from glass jars, the latter of which can still wear their labels, but the former which cannot. Although I cannot argue the wisdom in properly stewarding our resources, I still fantasize of the “good ol’ days” of going to the dump with my father. We would load up an amorphous blob of miscellaneous unwanted items, substances and liquids in his old pickup truck. Then we would meet a man in soiled clothing at the top of a cliff who would watch us back up and release our pile of refuse to the environment. Under the influence of gravity, the mass would hurtle down the loosely-graveled slope to eventually join a preexisting lake of fire. The medley of smells and colors that arose from that fire were the creative delight of a young boy whose thoughts of their potential harm never entered his small mind. His testimony of the occasion was simply that it was “wicked cool.” But those were different times, well before Al Gore invented the Internet or global warming. (NOTE: That last jab was my attempt to pander to one-half of the electorate and inflame the other. Unfortunately, the issue of proper stewardship of our environment has become a political issue, which is an unfortunate circumstance. I think most people would agree that politics is garbage, but garbage should not be politics.) Whether we like it or not, we have one planet to live on, as do our chil-
dren. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned from ladies who own 47 cats that are not cleaned up after, it is that negligence and selfishness can devalue and contaminate a property. Eventually, that lady will no longer remain, nor her cats, but urine for a surprise when you move in next. For that reason, I will try to maintain the proper attitude of selflessness when washing my can, so to speak, and be mindful that as I scrub off the last vestige of ravioli, I am preparing a better world for others by having spectacular trash. So that, as we age, even though the landfills might continue to grow and gobs of nuclear waste will persevere in its search for willing hosts, we might have peace. Our satisfaction may not be that we have eliminated the waste that pollutes our beautiful earth, but instead that we have sanitized and beautified it to the point that it ends up bearing a level of attractiveness that greatly eclipses its worth. We won’t be rid of it, but it will be clean. Clean enough to eat.
CHRIS QUIMBY is a husband, father, Christian comedian, writer, and graphic designer from Brooks. Visit him on the web at chrisquimby.com or nachotree.com. 80 / BANGOR METRO March 2015
IMAGE: DRAFTER123/THINKSTOCK.COM
Recycling carries with it the prerequisite that I properly clean my cans and jars ... Some of my garbage has better hygiene than I do.
2015
Because we’re tired of snow too...
APRIL 11&12
CROSS INSURANCE CENTER, BANGOR This year’s theme
Naturally Nautical
• Exciting landscaper exhibits
Kelly Donnelly
• 100+ vendor displays
Events & Brand Coordinator
• Fun, interesting speakers
tel. (207) 990-8021
• visit bdnmainegardenshow.com for more
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