SQUE ISLE • BANGOR • PORTLAND • STOCKHOLM • CHERRYFIELD • GOULDSBORO • MEDWAY • SANGERVILLE • KNOX • ELLSWORTH • ALNA • WINSL
E ID TS U IF G G T Y IF A G LID 15 O 20 T H O H
On the
Rocks
Chilly weather provides the perfect conditions for ice bars
Making Music Maine guitar makers combine their love of music and incredible craftsmenship
Inside:
Brother Don of Friar’s Bakehouse shares a New Year’s recipe Felting fun for kids Then & Now: Searsport
$5.95
December 2015
Mountain Mogul Hit the slopes with Maine-made skis
Your people, your region, your magazine.
contents
DECEMBER 2015
features HOLIDAY HELPER / 12 Meet one of Santa’s elves MOUNTAIN MOGULS / 14 Maine ski maker making a name HELPED BY AN ELF / 17 Random acts of giving brighten the holiday season WEATHERING THE BLUES / 18 Long winters mean increased risk of Seasonal Affective Disorder ON THE ROCKS / 22 Your guide to Maine ice bars
THEN & NOW: SEARSPORT / 34 The vibrant past and future of Searsport
28
BONNE ANNÉE / 40 Brother Don of Friar’s Bakehouse shares a New Year’s tradition COMFORT FOOD / 44 A visit to Humble Comfort in Brewer STATION IDENTIFICATION / 48 WKIT’s Bobby Russell is on the air TAKEDOWN ARTISTS / 60 UMaine wrestling club offers more than just mat time
ON THE COVER
Lucid Skis of Gray hits the slopes. See story on page 14.
Photo: Gary Pearl Photography 2 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
22
PHOTOS: (TOP) NOV. 2014 PHOTO OF DALLAS SEGER COURTESY BEN MCCANNA/POST MORTEM PORTLAND; (BOTTOM) COURTESY OF THE HILTON GARDEN INN IN FREEPORT
MAKING MUSIC / 28 Meet local luthiers making incredible guitars for musicians worldwide
34
Elves spread holiday cheer, page 17
Humble nachos, page 44
PHOTOS: (SKIS) COURTESY OF LUCID SKIS; (MITTENS) JYLIANA/THINKSTOCK.COM; (FOOD) BDN FILE
14
in every issue
columns
TALK OF THE TOWNS / 8 News from your communities
METRO WELLNESS / 21 A reluctant football mom
BIZ BUZZ & SIGHTINGS / 10 People and places on the move
METRO FAMILY / 58 Holiday shopping with toddlers in tow
PERSPECTIVES / 50 Abstract painter Meghan Brady
MAINE WOODS & WATERS / 62 Give a Maine experience
WHAT’S HAPPENING / 52 December events and festivals
LAST WORD / 72 Reinventing the 12 days of Christmas
AIMEE & AMY TRY... / 56 Felting holiday gifts SAVVY SENIORS / 64 Volunteers wanted REAL ESTATE / 66 Getting ready for guests CROWN OF MAINE / 69 News from Aroostook County
BONUS INSIDE! 2015 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Hot holiday gifts, recipes, local shopping tips and more!
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 Searsport (featured on page 34) More photos from events around our region. Email your own event photos: sightings@bangormetro.com
Get jolly wit h all things holiday! www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 3
editor’s note
Learn more about Lucid Skis, page 14
The temperature has dropped. We’ve shifted our clocks back for Daylight Savings Time (although I’m not convinced we actually save any daylight — it’s still dark when I get up, dark when I leave work, and dark when I go to bed). But we have gained in spirit and thoughts of giving. Not there yet? This month’s issue is sure to get you in the holiday mood. From an interview with an elf, to a super clean and easy-to-make craft with the kids, to events and activities happening throughout the state we’re brimming with cheer. And don’t forget to check out December’s jam-packed Gift Guide, filled with local ideas for every person on your gift-giving list (including a sweet gift subscription offer to buy a year’s worth of Bangor Metro for the one’s you love most). We’ve also included some of our favorite family recipes to help add to your festive family get togethers, and a few tips to minimize Christmas tree mess and shipping deadlines to make sure your gifts arrive on time. Need more reasons to turn the page? Learn about Lucid Skis made from locally sourced wood, take a trip back in time in Searsport, and find out what it takes to make a guitar in Maine. You get the idea. In closing, the entire Bangor Metro staff would like to wish you and yours a happy holiday season and thank you for making our first months as the magazine’s new owners so great. We look forward to a happy and healthy 2016 with some great surprises from the magazine coming your way. Stay tuned and we’ll see you next year!
Fun for kids and grown ups alike, page 56 AIMEE THIBODEAU, MANAGING EDITOR
Meet Maine guitar makers, page 22
4 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Homemade fudge recipe in our Gift Guide!
www.bangormetro.com P.O. Box 1329 Bangor, Maine 04402-1329 Phone: 207.990.8000
MANAGING EDITOR
Aimee Thibodeau athibodeau@bangordailynews.com
STAFF WRITER
Emily Burnham eburnham@bangordailynews.com
SALES MANAGER
Laurie Cates lcates@bangordailynews.com
ART DIRECTOR
Amy Allen aallen@bangordailynews.com
SUBSCRIPTION & PROMOTIONS MANAGER
Fred Stewart fstewart@bangordailynews.com
Connect with Bangor Metro Online! bangormetro.com facebook.com/BangorMetro @BangorMetro editor@bangormetro.com
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 5
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bob Duchesne
Joy Hollowell
Jane Margesson
Deb Neuman
Chris Quimby
Richard Shaw
Ashley Thornton
Emilie Brand Throckmorton
Bangor Metro Magazine. December 2015, Vol. 11, No. 10. Copyright Š 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.
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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. 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 Sales Manager, Laurie Cates at 207-990-8149.
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COVER PHOTO: GARY PEARL PHOTOGRAPHY
Call 990-8219 www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 7
talk of the towns
William Thompson was applauded for his efforts in expanding Guilford’s community library in 2002.
GUILFORD: Long-time Guilford Selectboard member and Chairman William Thompson, who also served his community as a science and driver’s education teacher for many years, received the Ethel Kelley Memorial Award at Maine Municipal Association’s 79th annual Convention. The Ethel Kelley Award recognizes distinguished community service and is considered MMA’s most prestigious annual award. Thompson joined the Guilford Selectboard in 1980 – and has not missed a meeting since. He has served for 35 consecutive years, including 24 as chairman. In nominating Thompson for the award, Guilford officials used similar adjectives in describing the man: reliable, dedicated, calm and conscientious. “He is, simply, the consummate selectman, a model to be emulated,” wrote Guilford Town Manager Thomas Goulette. Peter Martell, who also serves on the town’s selectboard, cited Thompson’s 8 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Well Deserved community leadership during a 1987 flood that caused more than $8 million in damage. “Bill worked in the boardroom to organize and provide essential services to the townspeople and, afterward, met with industries and businesses to convince them to rebuild,” Martell wrote. “Our town would be a lot different if it weren’t for his efforts to convince businesses to stay.” Thompson also is well known in his hometown as a science teacher, a position that he held for 45 years. His school was selected for national recognition several times during that period as a result of Thompson’s excellence in education. In 2009, he was a finalist for Maine Teacher of the Year. He also was a driver’s education instructor “on the side.” “Well-loved and highly respected, there are many residents well into their 60s who still affectionately refer to him as ‘Mr. Thompson,’” wrote Goulette. One of the judges who helped to select
Thompson for the Ethel Kelley Award, Terry St. Peter, a former Maine Municipal Association Executive Committee president and manager for the City of Caribou, bestowed the honor at the MMA Convention on Oct. 7. St. Peter cited as highlights Thompson’s efforts in expanding Guilford’s community library, improving the town playground and athletic complex and obtaining a $400,000 downtown revitalization grant. “One of the criteria for the Ethel Kelley Award is that the person chosen was a glue that helped hold the community together, as Ethel Kelley did during her years at MMA,” St. Peter said. “Clearly, the personality of this candidate and his multiyear involvement in all facets of his community strongly meet this criterion.” While accepting the award, Thompson was surrounded by supporters including his family and close associates from the Town of Guilford.
PHOTOS: BDN FILE
Long-time Guilford Selectn board member and Chairma William Thompson.
Recognizing
Community Leaders
BANGOR: The Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce will recognize Andrew Hamilton, a tireless and effective Bangor Region volunteer for many years, with its highest honor, the Norbert X. Dowd Award, at its annual dinner set for Jan. 21, 2016, which is expected to draw more than 1,000 area leaders and community supporters. The Norbert X. Dowd award is given each year to a member of the business community whose commitment of time, resources and talent has made the Bangor region a better place to pursue one's livelihood and dreams. The selection criteria typically take into account the honoree's achievement over the course of his or her career. In addition to the Dowd Award, the Chamber will recognize six individuals and organizations that have contributed to the region's vitality: The Business of the Year Award goes to Darling's Auto. As one of Maine's largest auto dealers, Darling's Auto is a model of customer and community service in our region. They make a conscious effort to use their business to be able to give back, both as a company and through each and every one of their employees, so that they can make a true difference in our local communities. The Catherine Lebowitz Award for Public Service goes to D'arcy Main Boyington. As the director of economic development for the City of Brewer, she has the full time job of putting Brewer on the map. Main Boyington has also been a tireless community advocate for the less fortunate in the greater Bangor region. Whether it be her board participation with the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter, or her dedication to the creation of a local food hub, Main Boyington’s goal is always to better the community through her altruistic efforts. The M. Jane Irving Community Service Award goes to Eastern Maine Community College who has made a notable difference in the lives of people in the Bangor region, and helped others by enhancing community assets. From the support that the college offered hundreds of dislocated workers through their expansion of their public safety programs, EMCC is investing in the community and bettering others' lives by doing so. The Nonprofit of the Year Award goes to the Greater Bangor Visitor and Convention Bureau. The organization has been involved in every single effort that has been made to attract visitors to the Bangor region and enhance their experience once they have arrived. Some great examples of the exemplary work of the GBCVB include: The annual Waterfront Car Show, the annual Beer Fest, continued support of the American Folk Festival, and the Fireball Run, just to name a few. The deep relationship that the GBCVB has created with the community enhances each experience that visitors have, making Bangor a destination instead of a "gateway."
A packed house at the 2015 Chamber dinner. (Below) 2016 Norbert X. Dowd award winner Andrew Hamilton
The Arthur Comstock Professional Service Award will be given to Ric Tyler. Besides the countless hours he has volunteered as emcee for the Chamber and multiple community causes and groups, Ric is also a successful radio personality, a group fitness instructor, creative video and audio campaign producer at Sutherland Weston and co-chair of the 2016 United Way campaign. Ric has demonstrated a strong sense of professionalism and dedication to our community at large. The Bion & Dorain Foster Entrepreneurship Award goes to Husson University which, with its recently announced capital campaign, has a goal to construct a new state-of-the-art building for an innovative College of Business. This addition will serve as a hub for entrepreneurial relationships between students and businesses and represent an infusion of capital into our local community. One additional award will be handed out at the Chamber's Annual Breakfast and Business meeting taking place at the Cross Insurance Center on Thursday, Jan. 7. The Chamber Volunteer of the Year award goes to a person who, through his or her volunteer efforts, has made an exceptional contribution to the Chamber in furthering its mission. The winner is selected by the Chamber's staff. This year that honor is being given to David Dunning of S.W. Cole Engineering. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 9
biz buzz & sightings On the Move
Awards
The Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed two new staff members. AMY ROLLINS joins the Chamber as the member services director. In this position, she will work closely with chamber members to effectively advocate, connect, and develop value for all participants. ELIZABETH BURRELL , operations manager and volunteer coordinator, joins the chamber after having been a long time Rockland volunteer. In her new position, Burrell will be working with and developing the volunteer base in Camden and Rockland.
The BANGOR ROTARY, on Oct. 27, presented its final payment of a $100,000 pledge to Sarah’s House, a hospitality house for adults undergoing cancer treatment nearby. This is the largest donation the rotary club has made in the community. This donation was made possible through its annual Music Off Broadway show, as well as individual donations.
AARON BALLMAN,
software security engineer at CERT, has joined the Penobscot Community Health Care Board of Directors. Prior to joining CERT in 2013, Ballman served as senior software engineer for X-Rite, as well as software engineer for 4D and lead programmer/compiler architect for REAL Software. A native of Sartell, Minnesota, Ballman received his undergraduate degree from St. Cloud State University, graduating Cum Laude. He moved to Maine in 2012 and resides with his wife in Greenbush. Manna Outpatient Services recently announced the addition of three professionals to its staff. DR. TAMARA HUNT, counselor, educator, and author, brings 30 years of experience and excellence to her work as a counselor for individuals with co-occurring challenges; DR. JONATHAN BOWEN, counselor, has an extensive history of work in Maine non-profit agencies with at-risk youth and their families. He has also worked as a home-based counselor and a clinical supervisor; and LISA ANDERSEN, MHRT/C, holds a psychology degree from the University of Maine at Presque Isle and is Manna Outpatient Service’s newest case manager.
10 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
The Maine Grocers & Food Producers Association announced the winner of the 2015 Grocer of the Year award at the Maine Food Means Business 2015 Summit held at the Hilton Garden Inn Freeport Downtown. This year’s recipient is KATHY JO AND JACK GOGGIN OF GOGGIN’S IGA in Randolph. This honor is given to members who meet the highest standards of excellence, including contributions to the association, community service, business excellence in providing a positive workplace, increased sales, contributions to the food industry through legislative or educational activities, and a commitment to furthering opportunities for other Maine businesses. Jack and Kathy Jo are third generation owners. They provide the Hometown Proud atmosphere that the IGA moniker embodies, by employing the next generation, supporting school and athletic activities, as well as donating to families in need.
JANESSA PLUMMER OF PLUMMER’S SHOP’N SAVE in Buxton took home first
place in the Maine Grocers & Food Producers Association 2015 Best Bagger Championship held in conjunction with the Maine Food Means Business Summit in October. Tanya Ogden, Shaw’s, Lewiston won 2nd place and Alyssa Brann, China Hannaford won 3rd place. In addition to taking home “bagging rights” for Maine, Janessa will compete against an estimated 39 other state champions for the $10,000 grand prize. Twelve attorneys from EATON PEABODY, a Maine law firm serving New England and Atlantic Canada, were ‘top rated’ by Super Lawyers New England Magazine: Jason C. Barrett, real estate; Seth W. Brewster, general litigation; Ryan P. Dumais, real estate; P. Andrew Hamilton, land use/zoning; Erica M. Johanson, state/local/ municipal; Berney J. Kubetz, general litigation; Judy A.S. Metcalf, business litigation; Sarah E. Newell, employment & labor; Jon A. Pottle, environmental; Neal F. Pratt, business litigation; Sarah Lang Reinhart, real estate; Jeff W. Spaulding, securities & corporate finance. New England Super Lawyer magazine bases their selections on a selection process that incorporates survey and peer reviews by Maine attorneys statewide followed by an interview process by Law & Politics, a division of Key Professional Media Inc.
3
We’ve been busy!
From Brew Fests to football to supporting important causes in our area, we love seeing you out and about! ALZHEIMERS WALK PHOTOS BY JEFF KIRLIN || BREW FEST PHOTOS BY DAVE ALLEN
1
1: The 2015 Eastern Maine Walk to End Alzheimer’s took place Oct. 24 at Bass Park in Bangor. Hundreds of volunteers, sponsors and donors showed their support for the Alzheimer’s Association.
2
2: Bangor Metro staffers Amy Allen, Aimee Thibodeau and Laurie Cates enjoyed a morning of tailgating at the University of Maine’s Home Town football game. 3 & 4: Hundreds attended the Aroostook County Brew Fest in Mars Hill despite the snow, including Caryn Cough of Lane Construction and Bangor Metro’s Sales Manager Laurie Cates.
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www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 11
movers & shakers
Holiday
I
Helper
One of Santa’s elves takes a quick break to talk toy making and elf life. BY DEB NEUMAN
t was not easy
getting an interview with one of Santa’s elves. It is crunch time at the North Pole and the elves are busy getting toys ready to deliver to children all over the world on Christmas Eve. But, one of the holiday helpers was able to break away from her toy making to talk with me. We sat down to chat over hot chocolate with peppermint sticks – extra sugar for her.
How long have you been one of Santa’s elves? Forever. Elves don’t measure our lives or birthdays the way you do. We never age. We remain young forever so we never outgrow our love for making and playing with toys. What is your favorite toy to make? Any toy that is going to make a child happy. I do have a fondness for toys that have been around for a really long time like wooden blocks and trains. Toys I made 40 years ago are now being played with by the children of the children Santa gave them to. What is your least favorite toy to make? I don’t have a least favorite. Elves don’t think in negative terms. We are happy all the time. We love making toys, any kind of toy, as long as it makes a child happy, and we sing a lot. What is Santa like to work for? We don’t call it “work” because we play all day. We love Santa. He takes good care of us and expects a lot from us. We have a huge responsibility to the children of the world and Santa doesn’t want to disappoint any of them. Have you ever considered another career? Never. We really don’t think that way. I mean what could possibly be better than spending your life making toys. I did hear about an elf who wanted to be a dentist once. Not sure where that came from. Do you ever get a day off? When Santa returns to the North Pole after all the toys are delivered, we gather together and celebrate his return, and the reindeer, too. We take the rest of the day off to show gratitude and love for each other and the children of the world.
12 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
We read all the letters the children leave for Santa on Christmas Eve. We treasure every word. Santa even shares some of the treats that the children leave for him. Except for the milk. Santa always drinks his milk. What do you like best about being one of Santa’s elves? The joy we bring to children on Christmas morning and the memories that will last a lifetime. Knowing that little girls and boys will find something special for them in their stocking or under their tree. What do you like least? When we can’t make every child’s Christmas wish come true. I want all the children to know that Santa operates in ways that they are not even aware of. I can’t say any more than that. Just know that Santa is watching and he only wants the best for all the children of the world. Christmas magic does happen even though it might not be in the way you hoped it would. Just know it will all be OK and you are loved. All you have to do is believe. What about people who don’t believe in Santa? (End of interview)
Need a PHOTOS: HELENAQUEEN & STACY BARNETT/THINKSTOCK.COM
Gift Idea? Send some love with
a subscription to
Bangor Metro! For subscriptions,
call 990-8219 www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 13
eye on industry
W Mountain
hat do you
Moguls
Maine company making handmade skis from locally sourced wood. BY DEB NEUMAN
get when you combine a passion for skiing and Maine with a talent for woodworking? You get a passion for creating skis handmade in Maine, using wood sourced in Maine. That is how Lucid Skis was born. In 2009, Ian Reinholt and Nick Mukai, who grew up skiing together at Sugarloaf in Kingfield, wanted to create a ski made from Maine wood. Reinholt, a carpenter by trade, applied those skills to developing a ski that performed as well as any modern ski, but with a classic, clean wood look. After two years of trial and error, several prototypes and a lot of testing by other skiers, they went into limited production in Avon, Maine. Reinholt’s “lucid” dreams about making skis and skiing itself led to the name of the business. Today, the company produces three different models of skis to suit both downhill and backcountry exploring, and they make a snowboard, as well.
The company currently employs four part-time people. Mukai remains involved with the operation as friend and part-time consultant. The increase in production to meet demand has presented the company with some challenges. “Ian and Nick did a great job creating jigs and a manufacturing process to ensure repeatability and consistency with each ski,” Martin explained. The company is currently able to produce three to four pairs of skis a day at its new facility that was completed in August. According to Martin, demand for the skis is growing. “We’ve had an amazing response so far. Our skis are so unique that when skiers see them on the lift and the mountain, they want to know more.” Showcasing the skis on the mountain has been how the company has marketed the product. “We do a lot of demo days and let people try them out. The skis really sell
“Not only are they cool and classy looking because of their natural look, they are more lively, snappy and have a better feel than most skis.”
Lucid skis and snowboards are made from a composite of locally sourced hornbeam, basswood or ash.
14 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Their skis are manufactured using the same lay-up and construction techniques of modern skis. The materials include a synthetic base and a hard steel edge. What sets Lucid skis apart, other than their classic look, is the use of hardwood for the sidewall of the ski, which means the core of the ski runs the entire width. The wood is a composite made of locally sourced hornbeam, basswood or ash that is glued together to create a strong and flexible ski. EJ Martin, originally from Rumford, took over as president of the company in the spring of 2015, when he and two other business partners purchased the company. They relocated Lucid Skis to Gray. “Ian wanted to scale up production to meet demand and that required bringing in some new people and relocating the shop to an area that was more densely populated,” Martin, a lifelong skier himself, said.
themselves once people get a chance to try them. Not only are they cool and classy looking because of their natural look, they are more lively, snappy and have a better feel than most skis,” Martin said. Lucid skis are competitive when compared to other high performance skis on the market. They sell for around $1,000 and the snowboards for $900 - $1,000. They are currently sold by ordering them directly and online. “Our future plans include selling our skis through ski shops,” Martin said. Lucid skis are designed for Northeast ski conditions and that is where most of their customers are coming from. They eventually plan to develop a ski made for powder and a race ski to expand their market and customer base. “We love what we do,” Martin said. “Skiing is the core of our business and our true passion. There is nothing like going out and making loops on the mountain on our skis.” For more details, visit lucidskis.com.
PHOTOS: (THIS PAGE) COURTESY OF LUCID SKIS; (OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP) GARY PEARL PHOTOGRAPHY; (OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM) COURTESY OF LUCID SKIS
– EJ Martin
Lucid Skis offer demo days on local mountains to allow skiers and snowboarders the chance to test out their products.
The company produces three different models of skis to suit both downhill and backcountry exploring, as well as a snowboard.
A Guide to Maine’s
Winter Weather
United Insurance offers tips for staying safe and protected all winter long.
W
inter in Maine
can bring with it any number of precarious conditions – icy roads, downed power lines, whiteout snowfall – and it can be hard to predict what damages may be uncovered in the aftermath of a storm. The staff of United Insurance is familiar with the weather-related risks unique to Maine winters, and offers some easy tips for keeping your property safe and protecting those you care about. It’s easy to take winter precautions for granted, as winter can also be a fun season to get outdoors and enjoy time with our families, but unforeseen damages caused by heavy snow, burst pipes and more can leave you scrambling to find whether or not your insurance policy has you covered. Even the hardiest Maine winter veterans can make costly mistakes when it comes to dealing with winter’s uncertainty.
Even the hardiest Maine winter veterans can make costly mistakes when it comes to dealing with winter’s uncertainty. Some of the major risks of winter are the obvious ones: hypothermia, black ice, frozen pipes, slippery walkways and power loss (especially for the elderly). Others can be less obvious, such as carbon monoxide inhalation from blocked heater vents or indoor generator usage, and roof collapse from heavy snowfall and water damage from roof leakage. Here are some warning signs and tips to keep you safe all winter: • Winter provisions: candles, dried food, flashlights, extra blankets, batteries, radio, are some of the items to have on hand • Clear snow from dampers and outside vents to allow exhaust to escape • Make sure carbon monoxide detectors in your home are working properly • Ensure that snow doesn’t build up on your roof by safely removing snow or hiring snow removal experts • Check for water pipes in unheated areas (basements, exterior walls) and ensure pipes are well insulated • Check tire treads and, if necessary, replace with snow tires • Shovel and salt walkways and stairways • Never run a generator in an enclosed space • Inspect and clean your fireplaces and chimneys, and check smoke detectors regularly • Have emergency numbers on hand • Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly
Sponsored by
1.800.734.2333
When it comes to preparing yourself in the winter, every property and every insurance policy is different. Think about the risks that may apply to your property, and make a note of whether or not you’re positive about your coverage. Insurance claims can be complex in some cases, especially when multiple parties are involved. For instance, say a neighbor’s tree limb that extends over your property becomes overburdened with snow and lands on the hood of your car. Are you covered? Who is at fault? Issues like this are very specific to your property and policy, and may warrant a conversation with your insurance agent. If you’re unclear about any aspect of your insurance policy, please give your agent a call today so that you don’t go through winter unprepared. Paid Advertisement for United Insurance.
PHOTO: LIVESLOW/THINKSTOCK.COM
• Pets are impacted by the cold as well, be sure they are safe
unsung hero
Helped by an Elf
F
or the seventh
holiday season in a row, a team of anonymous individuals — all residents of the Greater Bangor area with intentionally unknown identities — will gather gift cards, personal care items, clothing, food and even cash, and give it all away. The Bangor Elves have made a name for themselves doing these good deeds since 2009, though part of their holiday magic is the fact that they try not to draw attention to themselves by remaining anonymous. Giving is the only purpose. Throughout December, and even into January and February, Elves will do things like give $50 to everyone in a Dollar Store, or $100 tips to hard-working restaurant staff, or rolls of quarters at laundromats.
Bangor Elves brighten the holiday season with random acts of giving. BY EMILY BURNHAM
“We started out doing little things that would just put a smile on someone’s face, but the reality is that that person would catch the spirit, and do it to someone else.”
PHOTO: JYLIANA/THINKSTOCK.COM; BDN FILE
– A Bangor Elf
The Elves’ major event is a yearly Day of Giving in downtown Bangor, in which tables are stocked with warm coats, hats and socks, personal care items and food and are given away to the very poor or homeless. “It is awful how hard it is for some folks to afford things as simple as a new pair of socks or feminine hygiene products,” said one of the Elves. “We shop for these things all year and then pick a day in December and give it all away.” The volume of both donations and the amount of gifts the Elves personally buy — as well as the funds raised by yearly yard sales and suppers — has grown so much that this year the Elves had to file for non-profit status. The Elves live by two major principles. The first is to trust people. “When we did the giving tree downtown, which was just a tree right in town that we decorated with dollar bills and asked people to take what they need, or leave what they can, everyone told us ‘Oh, it won’t last five minutes,’” one Elf explained. “But what happened is that people really did take one and leave one. We had to trust people. And we do trust people, that they’ll do the right thing.” The other takeaway? Giving is contagious. “We started out doing little things that would just put a smile on someone’s face, but the reality is that that person would catch the spirit, and do it to someone else,” said the Elf. “That happened over and over again. Someone buys coffee for the person behind them at Dunkin’ Donuts, and then the next person does it, and on and on. Once you start, you can’t stop.” “We want everyone to assume that the person passing them on the street could be giving and helping,” she continued. “It could be your neighbor, your father, or your coworker that you really don’t like. That can change your view of the world. It can make the world a better place.”
Bangor elves provide warm items to people in need last winter in Pickering Square in Bangor.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 17
metro health
Long winters in Maine make us the perfect climate for Seasonal Affective Disorder. BY JOY HOLLOWELL
D
uring the
summer, lobster rolls and blueberry pie are top menu picks for Governor's six restaurants around Maine. But as the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, their customers’ tastes take a turn. “We do tend to feature more comfort style items like cakes, gingerbread and chicken pot pie during the fall and winter months,” says Jason Clay, director of
all about grilling and eating light. But during the colder months, folks tend to gravitate towards those calorie-rich comfort dishes. Eating these foods can make you feel less depressed in the short term, but the long term effects can actually leave us feeling worse. This year, the December Solstice in Maine has six hours and 48 minutes less daylight than June 21, which directly correlates to the fact that Maine has
“Unfortunately because of our latitude to the sun, we only make Vitamin D from about the end of March to the end of October.”
–Julie Hovencamp
marketing and IT for Governor's Restaurant. “There is a higher demand for hearty dishes and overall seasonal tastes.” Food has a direct correlation to people’s mood swings. In the summer, it’s 18 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
some of the highest rates of Seasonal Affective Disorder in the country. “We think between six to eight percent of the population has Seasonal Affective Disorder,” said Dr. David
PHOTOS: FUSE, ROCKY89, STEVANOVICIGOR/THINKSTOCK.COM
Weathering the Blues
Prescott, a clinical psychologist at Acadia Hospital in Bangor. “We’re talking about 60 or 70,000 people. That’s about twice the size of Bangor.” Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a form of depression related to the change in season. In particular, mental health professionals believe the mood disorder is linked to a lack of light. “For most, it starts in October and November when we begin losing our daylight,” explained Prescott. And while many in Maine are convinced they suffer from SAD during the winter months, their diagnosis may actually be more like the winter blues. “The winter blues is just that you don’t feel like doing as much or you don’t have as much energy or you’re kind of bummed out because there’s not as much daylight,” Prescott says. “Seasonal Affective Disorder is where you see things like increased sleep, lack of motivation, hopelessness about the future, weight or appetite changes.” There can even be thoughts of suicide. “The diagnostic criteria for SAD is that you must have these symptoms of depression present for two consecutive weeks,” he said. Like other depressions, women are three times more likely than men to be diagnosed with SAD. The more we age, the higher the risk but that doesn’t mean children are immune from the mood disorder. And, recognizing the symptoms in kids presents a whole new set of challenges, according to Prescott. “Often they don’t display the sadness or hopelessness,” he explained. “Instead they get irritable or angry.” Prescott adds the research on children with SAD is limited, “but we’re pretty sure the lack of light impacts kids the same as adults.” The good news about Seasonal Affective Disorder is that there are more treatment options for it than there are for other depressions. Phototherapy is shown to be effective. Those with SAD use a light therapy box 30 minutes a day, several times a week. The bright light helps mimic outdoor light. Psychotherapy can also help to break up some of the negative thinking patterns that go along with SAD. And according to Prescott, medications including Wellbutrin are designed specifically to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder.
(Top) Using a light therapy box 30 minutes a day, several times a week is shown to be effective against SAD. The bright light helps mimic outdoor light. (Left) Folic acid in green, leafy vegetables can be a great mood booster.
Mood enhancing foods is what St. Joseph Healthcare Dietitian Julie Hovencamp recommends. “We call it medical nutrition therapy,” said Hovencamp. “Foods with Vitamin B12 are very important when it comes to managing Seasonal Affective Disorder. Protein foods will provide this nutrition.” Both turkey and chicken contain an amino acid known as tryptophan. We usually associate that with Thanksgiving and putting us to sleep. But tryptophan can increase the amount of serotonin and melatonin in our brain. These two neurotransmitters are known as the feel good chemicals. “So once we eat the turkey and chicken that are rich in tryptophan, if we have enough vitamin B6 already in our bodies, we can convert that into serotonin and melatonin,” explained Hovencamp. Vitamin B6 is found in
foods including bananas and tuna fish. Enjoying a hot cup of coffee may seem like a good idea, but it’s actually a mood buster according to Hovencamp. “Caffeine can decrease serotonin levels,” she said, adding sugar and alcohol are also known catalysts. Vitamin D is another must-have on the list, and something many Mainers are lacking in the winter. “The sunlight is definitely good for boosting the mood, but we won’t actually convert it into Vitamin D,” explained Hovencamp. “Unfortunately because of our latitude to the sun, we only make Vitamin D from about the end of March to the end of October.” Instead, Hovencamp said to drink milk fortified with Vitamin D. There are some cereals and orange juice that also contain the supplement. Green, leafy vegetables are another way to combat SAD or the winter blues. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 19
The folic acid in them is a great mood booster, according to Hovencamp. “And frozen is just as good,” she said. “Even canned vegetables are OK as long as you rinse them first to cut down on the sodium.” She adds some seeds and nuts also contain folic acid. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help increase the part of the brain in charge of regulating emotions. Those are in things like salmon and eggs as well as canola oil and walnuts. Every once in awhile, it is OK to satisfy your cravings.
“Fight the tendency to say, ‘I can’t do this because it is winter, it’s too hard to get outside, I’ll be miserable.’ I suggest to people that they come up with five things that they can do.” –Dr. David Prescott “Absolutely,” said Hovencamp. “Have a little bit and then make sure the rest of your plate is filled up with plenty of fruits, vegetables and good, quality proteins.” If you can’t easily get a hold of these foods, low dose, generic vitamin supplements are typically safe to take. “But I always advise running any supplements you begin taking by your doctor to make sure you’re getting the right dosage,” she said. “You also want to make sure the supplements don’t interact with any medications you’re taking.” Getting plenty of sleep and activity are also recommendations. Whether you have Seasonal Affective Disorder or the winter blues, recognizing the symptoms can slow or even reverse the progress. “Fight the tendency to say, ‘I can’t do this because it is winter, it’s too hard to get outside, I’ ll be miserable,’” advised Prescott. “I suggest to people that they come up with five things that they can do. Active coping always beats passive coping.” 20 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Life on the
metro
wellness
Gridiron
I
PHOTO: COURTESY OF EMILIE BRAND THROCKMORTON
have two
Life lessons from a reluctant football mom.
sons who play football. One is Ellis, my 6-foot 3-inch, 235-pound stepson who is a linebacker for Husson University. The other is Reed, my skinny 8-year-old son. Ellis has been playing football since he was Reed’s age, too, but I missed the early days; by the time I came into his life, Ellis was big and strong and I never had to worry that football was too rough for him. But when Reed asked to sign up for football, I was reluctant. Not only have I read all the concussion articles, I have heard that youth football coaches can be harsh with kids, that they push them hard and yell at them in practice. I was honestly more concerned about his heart than his head. Ellis confirmed these claims, but insisted that tough coaches had been good for him, and explained that football was the turning point that helped him figure out how to stay focused and disciplined in the rest of his life, specifically in school. Plus, Reed told me, we would “crush his dreams” (he actually said that) if we didn’t let him play football. I was more nervous than Reed at his first practice. I warned him this would be different than rec soccer and baseball, where it was OK if Reed picked dandelions and sometimes stood on his head in the middle of the field. Youth football was serious business. Four coaches shouted commands at the players as they circled up for warmup drills. I resisted the urge to yell, “I love you, baby!” as he trotted out to join them. One drill required the kids to drop to the ground on their stomachs, and then pop up and run in place, repeat. The coaches allow no slacking. If one player doesn’t do it right, the whole team has to start over. I kept my eyes on Reed as he struggled through the drill. I swallowed a lump in my throat. I was rooting so hard for him to keep up. The other parents seemed to take this football thing in stride, standing on the sidelines and shouting to their kids
BY EMILIE BRAND THROCKMORTON
as they ran laps around the field in the hot sun. I admit, I wanted to cry several times watching my kid out there getting barked at by the coaches. People told me football would “build character” for Reed, but maybe we could just build character by baking cookies together and cuddling on the couch? I considered grabbing Reed, running through the end zone and right to my car. Out on that field, though, Reed followed every specific direction the coaches gave. He did not want to be the one who made the team have to redo a drill. Reed isn’t exactly an expert at following directions at home, but these coaches and their whistles had his attention. At the end of that first practice, when he pulled off his helmet, I first noticed that his hair was soaked with sweat and his cheeks were blazing red, and then I saw his smile. For the next few months, three nights a week, in all kinds of weather, Reed worked harder at football than I’ve ever seen him work at anything. Yet he always looked forward to practice, and always walked off the field smiling. The coaches did yell commands to the kids in loud voices, but no coach was ever unkind to a player. One night I heard a coach yell at Reed: “Why are you hesitating on your tackles? You need to drive through!” And I thought to myself: OK, that wasn’t very nice, but he’s right. Reed isn’t driving through. In the next drill, Reed tackled correctly and earned a coveted high five from the coach. If he was told to run a lap because he had forgotten to put his mouth guard in during a drill, he’d do it and say later: “It’s OK, Mom. I deserved it.” How is it that my sweet son was responding so positively to such a rigid, disciplined pro-
Ellis and Reed hug it out after a game.
gram? The answer, I figured out, is that Reed loved and respected his coaches. At the end of every practice and game, the coaches gathered the team into a circle. In these meetings, the kids took off their helmets and chugged water while coaches acknowledged what had been hard and specifically discussed what they did well. There was no gratuitous praising going on here; the players were commended only when they had worked hard and executed what they had been taught. During these team meetings, it became obvious to the players and the parents that these coaches truly loved our kids. Football has its own subculture and takes some getting used to. I was lucky to have Ellis prepare me for it, and to serve as living proof that football can provide direction and structure for a kid like Reed. While Reed learned that he can survive a challenge, and that hard work and perseverance pay off (the kid has some new muscles), I learned that my boy can handle stern and direct instruction. He does not need to be babied or coddled. He can hold his own in tough situations. When the coaches say to the kids: “We are so incredibly proud of you. You did not give up. You stuck with it,” I feel like they are talking to me, too.
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. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 21
feature story
On the
(This photo) The Flavors Ice Bar at the Hilton Garden Inn in Freeport. (Right) A variety of winter cocktails at The Samoset’s Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge. (Far right) The bar at Flavors Ice Bar features an elaborate ice sculpture, ice luge, cozy fire pit, delicious BBQ and a DJ to get you moving.
22 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
O
Maine’s chilly winter provides perfect conditions for ice bars.
n the rocks
BY AIMEE THIBODEAU
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE SAMOSET RESORT & THE HILTON GARDEN INN IN FREEPORT; (ICE, LETTERS, GLASS) PIONEER111, JEFUNNE, MACROVECTOR/THINKSTOCK.COM
gets a whole new meaning during winter in Maine when some businesses and organizations give frosty weather a purpose — to make intricate and creative ice bars. Ice bars were originally a popular winter option in Canada and Scandinavian countries, with places like the Hotel de Glace in Quebec City and the Icehotel in Sweden pioneering the chilly phenomenon. Those places, in fact, are housed within ice hotels, which are, unsurprisingly, hotels constructed entirely from ice. Today, though, ice bars can be found everywhere from decidedly not-cold places like Las Vegas and Dubai, to right here in Maine.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 23
feature story
Samoset Resort
Rockport In the heart of winter, the Samoset Resort in Rockport transforms more than 20,000 pounds of glacier ice into one of the “hottest and coolest lounges” on the Maine coast. The Samoset's Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge is set to be open, weather permitting, Jan. 15-16 and 22-23, 2016. When the time gets closer, be sure to visit samosetresort.com/ice-bar-lounge for details.
(Top) More than 20,000 pounds of glacier ice is turned into The Samoset’s Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge (This photo) Saint Joseph’s College annual Ice Bar display.
In the heart of winter, the Samoset Resort in Rockport transforms more than 20,000 pounds of glacier ice into one of the “hottest and coolest lounges” on the Maine coast.
Spire 29
Run of the Mill Public House and Brewery
Saco At Saco’s Run of the Mill Public House and Brewery, Dining Room Manager Justin Kurz said their Winter Carnival and Ice Bar always is a hit. “It turns out to be one of our busiest days of the year, believe it or not,” Kurz said. Although they don’t have specific dates, the event likely will be held in February. Follow them on Facebook and check the website at runofthemill.net after the first of the year.
24 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE SAMOSET RESORT & SAINT JOSEPH’S COLLEGE
Gorham At Spire 29, the former Methodist church at 29 School St. in Gorham, the Spire & Ice hand-carved ice bar will be open 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Jan. 15-16, serving drinks from the ice luge. Once you’ve experienced the chill, head inside for more drinks, snacks and entertainment. Find them on Facebook for event details.
PHOTO: (LEFT) ©2015 CORAL BREUER; (RIGHT) COURTESY OF THE HILTON GARDEN INN IN FREEPORT
(Top) An ice sculptor creates a chilly work of art for Ice Fest L/A, a three-day celebration of arts, ice sculptures and local community. (Right) Power tools help sculpt the bar for The Flavors Ice Bar at the Hilton Garden Inn in Freeport.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 25
feature story Portland In Portland, you can visit the Ice Bar at Portland Harbor Hotel Jan. 21-23. Details haven’t been released, but you won’t miss out if you sign up for their newsletter at portlandharborhotel.com. Click on the contact & directions button and scroll to the bottom of the page for the email signup section.
Brunswick Hotel & Tavern
Brunswick Brunswick Hotel & Tavern also plans to hold its Ice Bar event again in 2016, but didn’t have details at press time. Keep checking their website at thebrunswick hotelandtavern.com for information.
Hilt on Garden Inn
Freeport February also offers frosty beverages in Freeport with Flavors of Freeport, presented by the Hilton Garden Inn, featuring two premier events, the Chef’s Signature Series and the Flavors Ice Bar.
Flavors of Freeport will be held Feb. 19-21, which includes the Ice Bar on Friday and Saturday night. The Flavors Ice Bar features an elaborate ice sculpture, ice luge, cozy fire pit, delicious BBQ, and a DJ to get you moving. “This is the first year we are adding a second night of the ice bar,” said Kelly Edwards, executive director of FreeportUSA. “It will not include the Chef's Signature Series, but there will be food and live music.”
Saint Joseph’s College
Standish To benefit the Saint Joseph’s College Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship fund, the college will hold its fourth annual Ice Bar from 6 p.m.-midnight, Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016. The annual Ice Ball is a great opportunity warm up this winter with your family and friends at Saint Joseph’s lakeside campus in Standish. The 21-plus event features the Ice Lounge and Bar, including a food
buffet and custom cocktails by the fire. This event is open to everyone — alumni, guests, students, faculty and staff, and the greater Windham area community are invited. For more details, visit sjcme.edu closer to the event date.
Bates Mill Fountain Park & Atrium
Lewiston/Auburn And if you turn to western Maine, the Bates Mill Fountain Park & Atrium will host the 4th annual Ice Festival Lewiston Auburn, also from Feb. 19-21. Ice Fest L/A, a three-day celebration of arts, ice sculptures, and local community that raises funds for L/A Arts, is going to ancient Egypt in 2016 for its ice sculpture inspiration. Friday is VIP night, and the event culminates from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 21, with Family Day where children under age 18 get in free and the festivities include family-friendly events.
The Flavors Ice Bar at the Hilton Garden Inn in Freeport.
26 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
PHOTO: (THIS PAGE) COURTESY OF THE HILTON GARDEN INN IN FREEPORT; (OPPOSITE) ©2015 CORAL BREUER
Portland Harbor Hotel
The annual Ice Festival Lewiston Auburn.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 27
Making
28 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Music
PHOTO: NOV. 2014 PHOTO OF DALLAS SEGER COURTESY BEN MCCANNA/POST MORTEM PORTLAND
feature story
Luthier Dallas Seger of Seger Electric Freeman Mountain Guitars in Bangor. (Right) One of Seger’s handmade guitars.
T
here are plenty
of reasons people are drawn to make things. Maybe it’s the love of using your hands. Maybe it’s creating something that can be used. Maybe it’s the challenge. Maybe it’s just an insatiable curiosity about how things work. For people who make guitars – luthiers, as they’re known – it’s usually all of the above. In Maine, there are more than 25 professional luthiers currently creating world-class guitars (and other stringed instruments, in some cases). They range from Dana Bourgeois, a world-renowned guitar maker based for the past two decades in Lewiston, to lesser-known luthiers operating out of home shops in rural towns statewide. Regardless of the volume and type of guitar made, however, the end result is a piece of useable art – whether used to make bluegrass music or heavy metal.
Maine guitar makers combine a love of music and incredible craftsmenship to create one of a kind instruments. BY EMILY BURNHAM
Regardless of the volume and type of guitar made, however, the end result is a piece of useable art – whether used to make bluegrass music or heavy metal.
Dallas Seger
Seger Electric Freeman Mountain Guitars, Bangor Though Seger Electric Freeman Mountain Guitars has been in operation for 16 years, luthier Dallas Seger, an Old Town native now based in Bangor, is just in his mid-30s. He found his calling very early on. It was a combination of two things – heavy metal and shop class – that brought him to guitar making. “I was lucky enough to have shop class from fifth grade all the way through high school… Shop class was one of the only subjects I paid attention to,” said Seger. “I started playing guitar when I was 12 and was immediately drawn to the woodworking aspect of it.” www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 29
feature story
Dana Bourgeois
Bourgeois Guitars, Lewiston That gorgeous, warm, spectacularly resonant guitar seen in the hands of Doc Watson, Ricky Skaggs, Ray Lamontagne and Luke Bryan? Those were made by Dana Bourgeois, one of the country’s foremost luthiers. Bourgeois, a Maine native, is based in Lewiston, and he’s stayed put in Maine his whole life. Though he could have moved to a major urban area or set up shop in Nashville, he chose to stay in Maine – where his family on both sides has lived for more than 200 years. “I've lived my entire life in Cumberland County or no more than a few hundred yards across the county line. I never envisioned moving anywhere else, even though my career probably would have benefited from a Nashville, Southern California or New York zip code,” said Bourgeois, who still lives in Brunswick. Bourgeois operates out of a renovated 1960s mill in Lewiston, where he and his crew build less than 400 guitars a year. He makes a wide array of acoustic gui30 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Scott Conley, owner of Conley Guitars in Bowdoinham.
tar styles, though when he started 40 years ago, the market for custom guitars was low – everyone needed repairs, few needed to buy. That began to change, however, and Bourgeois quickly made a name for himself among folk, roots and bluegrass guitars. He eventually founded Schoenberg Guitars, a leading luthier name throughout the 1980s, with guitarist Eric Schoenberg.
Scott Conley
Conley Guitars, Bowdoinham Scott Conley, a Portland native now living in Bowdoinham, has made beautiful acoustic guitars for the past 20 years out of his home studio, with musicians like Jackson Browne and Taj Mahal playing his instruments. Before he went to luthier’s school in Michigan, however, he was working in his family’s auto body shop – clearly, the jump from cars to
A pioneer among American luthiers, a few years back Dana Bourgeois introduced the use of torrefied – artificially aged – tonewood, such as spruce or maple, which is now used by almost all major acoustic guitar makers. By 1992, he’d struck out on his own with Bourgeois Guitars. A pioneer among American luthiers, a few years back Bourgeois introduced the use of torrefied – artificially aged – tonewood, such as spruce or maple, which is now used by almost all major acoustic guitar makers. For a guy who first latched onto his love of the guitar when he saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan in 1964, he’s now become a part of guitar history.
guitars wasn’t that huge of a jump. Just replace the smell of burning metal with the smell of freshly cut wood. Now, Conley makes custom guitars for discerning customers, carefully constructing each millimeter of an instrument for optimum performance; each brace interlocks individually, each piece of wood is bent by hand, each bit of glue and varnish is painstakingly applied. “Each request is as different as the
PHOTOS: (TOP) COURTESY OF SCOTT CONLEY; (RIGHT) COURTESY OF DANA BOURGEOIS.
After more than a decade of work, it’s only been in the past few years that Seger feels as though his guitars have passed a certain threshold – years of working as the in-house luthier at Northern Kingdom Music in Bangor have helped train him for that as well. As he says on his Facebook page, they’re called “Freeman Mountain” guitars because “they’re ruggedly built and meant to run free.” As a metal fan, there’s a certain kind of titanic, monster sound required for any guitar to do the music justice – and Seger, who always plays in the metal band Manic Abraxis, knows this well. It also helps that the look of his guitars match the big, heavy sound. As both a guitarist and luthier, he’s a fan of Gibsons – bigger, meatier, stronger. He’s also built V-style guitars, including a custom design for Angus McFarland of the Maine metal band Hessian. Regardless of the style, a Seger guitar looks great. “I have big hands, so it’s hard for me to play Fenders… If you get an old Gibson with a fat neck they just sing. You can feel how sturdy it is while you’re playing it,” said Seger. “That’s what I’m capturing with my guitars. They feel like they’re 50 years old and have all the classic tones.”
Dana Bourgeois operates out of a renovated 1960s mill in Lewiston, where he and his crew build less than 400 guitars a year.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 31
feature story customer,” said Conley. “Basically, I make it as much work as possible. I tap and listen to each and every piece of wood I use. I’m sure it seems a little crazy, but I find the results rewarding.” Conley’s most beloved design is his Jason Phelps model, named after the guitarist for longtime Portland bluegrass band the Jerks of Grass. “It's probably my most innovative and original design,” said Conley. “My favorite comment about it comes from the violinist and fiddler Darol Anger, who said ‘That's not just a guitar – it’s a machine!’"
Mark Mattos of Mattos Custom Guitars in Portland.
Mark Mattos favorite building materials include Maine-sourced pine and recycled barn boards.
32 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Mattos Custom Guitars, Portland When Mark Mattos was eight years old, he was trying – and failing – to learn to play the accordion. He hated it. When his parents finally bought him a Sears Silvertone nylon string guitar, he breathed a sigh of relief. By the time he was in his teens, however, he’d given up the acoustic guitar for the electric – and began working on amps and guitars at his local music store in Massachusetts. It’s those early electric guitars – classic Fenders played by rockabilly and rock legends – that Mattos loves and specializes in. In particular, the Fender Esquire, which is the precursor to the Telecaster. Mattos’ signature model is a custom guitar inspired by the Esquire. “I am fascinated by the history behind Leo Fender’s creation of the Esquire in 1950,” said Mattos. “Other makers offered solid body electrics at the time, but his was the first mass produced solidbody electric… They were simple, lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and had a clear twangy tone like the steel guitars that were so popular in the western swing music he loved so much.” Those efficient but elegant guitars are made out of Maine-sourced pine, including an enormous cache of reclaimed, recycled barn boards, which is Mattos’ favorite guitar material. Instead of giving his guitars a glossy finish, however, Mattos uses a blend of milk paint, shellac, and a polyurethane based on a by-product of cheese making. As a history buff inspired by the roots of rock n’ roll, it only makes sense his guitars would hold a vintage appeal.
PHOTOS: (LEFT) COURTESY OF MARK MATTOS; (RIGHT) COURTESY OF ANDREW OLSON.
Mark Mattos
“I don’t strive for super glossy automotive type finishes, I think there’s plenty of that already available,” said Mattos. “Instead, I want something that’s evocative of those early Fender instruments but without obvious artificial aging. I think my guitars look, sound and feel great and so far most players who have tried them agreed.”
Andrew Olson
AO Guitars, Freeport As a kid growing up listening to Hendrix and Clapton, you might have thought Andrew Olson would have stuck with just playing guitars, rather than making them. But that insatiable need to figure out how things work that’s so common to luthiers was there. Now the owner of AO Guitars in Freeport, Olson makes electric guitars inspired by all those greats – from the aforementioned guitar gods, to ones inspired by Jerry Garcia, to ones inspired by local folks, like Dave Gutter of Rustic Overtones and Paranoid Social Club. As a college student, however, it was the initial geeking out over gear that got him hooked – after perusing a luthier supply company catalog, there was no turning back. “I was able to combine my obsession with playing music with my love of crafting and fixing things and working with my hands,” said Olson, a Connecticut native who has lived in Maine fulltime for 10 years. Though Olson makes a wide variety of guitars, it’s the Fender Stratocaster that was his first love and remains a huge inspiration. “There’s a reason that my standard guitar shape, the Venus, has quite a few nods to the Strat – in both construction and design,” said Olson. “[But] I do a lot of completely custom work as well… I’ve been building a lot of replicas of Jerry Garcia’s custom guitars over the years and have become fairly well known for those too. I’ve been fortunate to spec out almost all of his most famous guitars myself and they were such a huge reason that I got into the custom guitar scene in the first place, so it’s amazing to be a part of keeping those guitars alive and getting them into the hands of guys who loved them as much as I did.”
The Venus is the standard guitar shape of Andrew Olson, owner of AO Guitars in Freeport.
searsport then & now
(Top) A historic photo of Main Street Searsport in 1908. (Left) Today’s Main Street features Penobscot Marine Museum and Captain Tinkham’s Emporium, while across the street shoppers will find the Grasshopper Shop and Coastal Café & Bakery.
34 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Antique Capital
Searsport is a town of many nicknames, a unique history and a very bright future.
of Maine
HISTORIC PHOTOS COURTESY OF PENOBSCOT MARINE MUSEUM, SEARSPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY, BANGOR DAILY NEWS, BANGOR PUBLIC LIBRARY, MAINE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION, AND JOSHUA W. CURTIS JR. AND DONALD F. MORTLAND COLLECTIONS “HOME OF MANY FAMOUS SEA CAPTAINS.” “ANTIQUE CAPITAL OF MAINE.” “HEAD OF PENOBSCOT BAY.” “OUR MARITIME HERITAGE … CHARTING OUR FUTURE.”
T
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY RICHARD SHAW
he Waldo County
town of Searsport boasts almost as many nicknames as the seasonal flea markets and antique shops that dot U.S. Route 1 from East Belfast to Stockton Springs. Part tourist town, part shipping port and railway hub, the historic village is a must-stop destination for anyone driving along the coast. In the 19th century, the port had an astonishing 17 shipyards and built 200 ships, while supplying one-tenth of the country’s deep-water sea cap-
tains. December and Searsport is a special marriage. There is a bite in the air as visitors sample the Main Street cafes and shops still open in winter. The palatial Capt. A.V. Nickels Inn and Homeport Inn are favorite photo stops. Mosman Park, just off Route 1, affords Penobscot Bay panoramas. Boston steamers and sailing vessels docked here in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Moose Point State Park, to the south, and Sears Island, to the north, have hiking trails that can be on bare ground or www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 35
searsport then & now Searsport House featured on a postcard from 1907. (Below) The Carver Memorial Library.
under deep snow in early winter. Originally called Brigadier’s Island and later named for David Sears of Boston, who granted funds for the founding of Searsport, the island is state-owned, undeveloped, uninhabited, and accessible by causeway to non-vehicular traffic. Seasonal visitors will find the Grasshopper Shop and Coastal Café & Bakery open for business. Across the street is Captain Tinkham’s Emporium of old tools and ephemera. A Main Street plaque inspired by Town Historian Charlene Knox Farris honors the heroics of Maj. Kenneth G. Smith, who died in a 1947 plane crash. The Hobby Horse and Searsport Flea Markets closed on Columbus Day, but some antique shops are open by chance or appointment. Searsport Antique Mall is open year round.
“Yes, Searsport has changed a lot, and I think for the better. I can see a boost in business from people who are discovering Belfast and driving up the coast.” –David Oakes
Steamboat Wharf in 1905.
36 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
“Yes, Searsport has changed a lot, and I think for the better,” said antique mall manager David Oakes. “I grew up here, as did my assistant, Becky Ellsmore, and I can see a boost in business from people who are discovering Belfast and driving up the coast.” Every town has issues, Oakes said. Topping Searsport’s in 2015 may have been a plan to dredge the harbor to allow heavier ships to dock at Mack Point cargo port. Deepen the channel and the region will prosper, argued industrialists. Opponents countered that this would harm fishing and the environment. The project has been placed on hold pending further study. Visitors on Dec. 4 and 5 can celebrate a Victorian Christmas at the Penobscot Marine Museum, founded in 1936 by Clifford Carver and Lincoln Colcord and featuring a collection of 12 buildings on three acres. The ship captain’s house will be decorated
Town Stats First Incorporated: Feb. 13, 1845 Named for: David Sears of Boston, grantor of money for town’s founding Population: 2,618 (2012 estimate) Median resident age: 46.9 Notable People: • Sam Houston, George Washington’s bodyguard • Marlboro Packard, master shipbuilder • Joanna Carver Colcord, maritime lore collector • Clifford Nickels Carver, Penobscot Maritime Museum co-founder • Henry Chadwick, nationally known journalist Landmarks: Moose Point State Park, Penobscot Marine Museum, First Congregational Church, United Methodist Church, Carver Memorial Library, Union Hall, Sears Island, Mack Point cargo port
A view of Main Street in Searport, then and (above) now.
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searsport then & now A photo of Union School then and (below) now. The Union School is now an apartment building.
The First Congregational Church and NickelsColcord-Duncan House.
by community groups and businesses. Nearby is First Congregational Church, whose congregation is celebrating its bicentennial, Union Hall, and Carver Memorial Library. Also participating will be the Searsport Historical Society, based in the ca. 1830 Crary Carlin Coleman house. A Dec. 4 town tree lighting will kick off the festivities and on Dec. 5, the historical society will sponsor a historic house tour. “Our museum is filled with remarkable stories of bravery and pluck,” said External Relations Director Kathy Goldner. “All of these little towns along the Maine coast were self-sufficient and very prosperous, especially Searsport. If you were ambitious, you moved to a town like Searsport, with multiple shipyards, and you worked your way up to being a shipbuilder, a captain, or both, and sailed around the world.” Check local websites to assure museum and business hours and lodging availability at penobscotmarinemuseum.org and searsport.maine.gov. After sampling Searsport’s history and culture, you may even dream up a new town slogan of your own.
Check out our interactive map of Searsport at bangormetro.com 38 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 39
food file
Bonne Année Brother Don of Friar's Bakehouse in Bangor shares a traditional French Canadian family recipe for the New Year. STORY & PHOTOS BY EMILY BURNHAM
40 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
A
mong the
tomatoes, cucumbers and other vegetables grown on his family’s farm in Biddeford, one of the things that Brother Don of Friar’s Bakehouse in Bangor specifically remembers from his childhood being harvested in the fall were little gherkin cucumbers, destined for pickling. “My mother would pick those and throw them into a gallon jar labeled ‘Midnight Mass,’ because that’s when
we’d eat them; after Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve,” he said. “After everyone went to mass we’d have reveillon, which literally means ‘wake up.’ It was a huge party that went until two or three in the morning, and that’s when you’d open presents and have pork pie and eat those pickles.” Among the many traditions among those in Maine of French Canadian descent – be they of Acadian descent in
the northern part of the state, or from Quebecois extraction in the southern part, as Brother Don is – there are countless holiday rituals observed around Christmas and the New Year. Many of them revolve around food, and the hearty cuisine found in both Quebec and the Maritimes. Christmas and New Year’s dinners were feasts that families would prepare for all year long. While local food is the trendy and ethical thing to eat these days, in the past, locavore wasn’t a buzzword – it was the norm.
The secret ingredient to the Friar’s ragout boulettes is a special spice blend that Brother Don travels to Quebec each year to purchase. In fact, there are several spice blends he’s only able to get in person, in stores in Quebec. “I grew up in the quintessential French Canadian family – French is my first language – and everything we grew on our farm, we used. We’d keep a pig and a cow and use every bit of it,” said Brother Don. “We used to say we used every part of the pig but the oink. Pork pies, cretons, ragout. Every bit of the pig.” While pork pie (tourtiere) was eaten for Christmas, ragout boulettes was the special meal for New Years – big pork and beef meatballs, cooked in a hearty, flavorful stew and served over potatoes and carrots. Translated, it means “pig’s feet ragout,” though Brother Don cautions that’s not an entirely accurate name for what the dish actually is. “It sounds ridiculous, but you don’t actually use the feet. You use the hocks. Almost the feet, but not quite,” he said. “Remember: you use all of the pig.” The secret ingredient to the Friar’s ragout boulettes is a special spice blend that Brother Don travels to Quebec each year to purchase. In fact,
(Above) Ragout boulettes is a special meal for New Years featuring big pork and beef meatballs cooked in a hearty, flavorful stew with potatoes and carrots. (Right) The secret ingredient to the Friar's ragout boulettes is a special spice blend that Brother Don travels to Quebec each year to purchase.
there are several spice blends he’s only able to get in person, in stores in Quebec – one for ragout boulettes, one for pork pie, and one for cretons, the savory pork spread slathered on everything from baked beans to ployes (for the Acadians, anyway). “I’ve looked everywhere online or by mail order, and these blends just don’t exist anywhere other than Quebec,” he
said. “If you travel anywhere, you’ll find these indigenous spice blends. I went to Haiti and bought some there. Someone sent me some from the Holy Land. It’s all a part of the culture.” To make the dish at home, however, you don’t need that special spice blend. You can make a reasonable facsimile by combining cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and bay leaves. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 41
food file Many French Canadian dishes find their way onto the daily menu board at Friar’s Bakehouse, from ragout to pork pie to donair – the shaved meat sandwich which, while not strictly French, is certainly consumed by countless French Canadians. Though the Central Street lunch spot is perhaps best known for its whoopie pies, its more traditional offerings have developed quite a following as well. “I have one woman that travels down from Mars Hill to buy pork pies,” said Brother Don. “You’d think she could get them closer to home, but she says ours are the best. Who am I to argue?”
NOTE: Farine grillee (browned flour) is available ready to use in Quebec grocery stores, but in the U.S., we have to make it ourselves. Put 1 1/4 cup of all purpose flour in a heavy bottomed frying pan and place over VERY low heat. Stir it frequently to make sure it doesn't stick or scorch. The browner the flour, the "nuttier" it will taste.
Food File Ragoût de Pattes de Cochon Avec Boulettes Pour le Jour de l'an a la Mode de Maman
(Mom's New Year's Pork Hock Stew with Meatballs) Yields: 8 to 10 generous servings, depending on the appetite of "les habitants" 4 fresh (NOT smoked...ask your butcher) pork hocks 1/4 cup vegetable oil 3 large carrots, pared and sliced thickly 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup) 3 ribs of celery, diced 4 bay leaves Salt and pepper to taste 3 pounds ground pork 1 pounds ground beef 1 cup plain bread crumbs 4 eggs, beaten 1 cup onion, minced finely 4 garlic cloves, minced finely 2 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground clove 2 tsp ground nutmeg 1 1/4 cup farine grillee (see note above) 1 cup cold water Potatoes, peeled, quartered and boiled until fork tender (2 potatoes per serving)
42 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
In a large stock pot or dutch oven heat the oil. Sear the hocks on all sides, turning frequently. When well browned, cover completely with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, add the carrots, onions, celery and bay leaves. Simmer for about 3 hours, adding water as necessary to keep the hocks covered until the meat begins to separate from the bone. Remove hocks from broth and cool. Separate the meat from the bones and skin. Dice the meat and set aside. Mix together the ground pork, ground chuck, bread crumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg. Mix until well blended. Form into uniform balls (a small ice cream scoop works well). Roll each in the farine grillee. Bring the stock to a boil and add the boulettes one at a time. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the boulettes don't stick to each other. When cooked, remove the boulettes and set aside. Remove the bay leaves and bring the stock to a boil. Mix the remainder of the farine grillee with the water until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the boiling broth while vigorously whisking. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then add the hock meat and boulettes to the gravy. Put potatoes in a deep bowl and ladle the meat/boulette/ gravy mixture on top. Happy New Year!
Katie, Zach and Ben Beaulieu
“Flying from Bangor makes life easier.” Between work and parenting, Katie and Zach are always on the go. And with Ben growing so fast, flying to visit family members is an important part of their lives. For them, Bangor International Airport is a close-by, family-friendly solution. Best of all, when they touch down in Bangor, tucking Ben into his own bed is a short ride home. Learn more at FlyBangor.com.
DELTA 15-BGR-0051_BangorMetro_Dec15_Beaulieu.indd 1
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www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 43
kitchen confidential
M
eghan and Chris
Black are in love with each other and with comfort food. Last year, the couple decided to open their own restaurant in Brewer in order to share some of their family favorite dishes with others. Thankfully, both had years of experience working in other restaurants and bars to bring to the table. And, as Meghan explained, the duo is happy to put those skills to the test one bite at time.
Meghan and Chris Black
Owners of Humble Comfort in Brewer. What is your idea of comfort food? Comfort food is something that you grew up with, that can make you feel nostalgic of your childhood. A belly full of food that brings you to a happy place is our goal. What was your favorite family meal growing up? My favorite dish was my mother's homemade macaroni and cheese. Chris' favorite was his mother's beef stew. Is there a certain food you refused to eat as a youngster but now love? Strangely the answer is the same for both of us — Brussels sprouts.
Humble Comfort owner Meghan Black makes a Humdinger, made with cherry vodka, lime juice and seltzer.
Comfort Food
Humble Comfort in Brewer brings your favorite dishes to a new level. BY JODI HERSEY
44 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
What attracted you to a career in the food industry? For me, it was being able to talk to different people every day and the unbelievable experiences you have along the way. For Chris, the appeal was learning to prepare foods and please people with what he had made. Of course, he was happy to make money while making people happy. How did you come up with the name Humble Comfort Foods & Spirits? To us, Humble described our ideal environment in one word. Since the word wouldn't adequately describe on its own what we are up to on the inside, the 'comfort food and spirits' was kind of an afterthought. We are happy to have you if you walked here or drove here in a Mercedes, if you are in flip flops or a tuxedo, we will treat you the same. So far, I think the name is a good fit for us.
Describe your restaurant's most popular dish. The Humble Pie has a flavorful mashed potato base, topped with a beef that has been braised for hours to make it fall apart. It's topped with carrots and onions. Who has a better palate – you or your husband? Chris has a better palate, as much as I hate to admit it. Do your kids enjoy your cooking? They all have different tastes, but we have the ingredients to make them all happy. Hopefully someday they will appreciate the opportunity to not only decide what they will eat, but help to prepare it. What has been the most memorable compliment a customer has said about your food or restaurant? I wouldn't dare say one person has given us the best compliment, because the fact that people come back time and again is the biggest compliment to us. Where do you like to dine out? Definitely Geaghans. We like that we can go grab a tasty beer made locally and
Barbecue chicken nachos mad e with house made potato chip s get plated at Humble Comfort .
On the Menu Just a few of the favorite menu items from Humble Comfort in Brewer.
Starters
BBQ CHICKEN NACHOS Shredded BBQ chicken, cheddar cheese, sour cream, served on a bed of homemade Humble chips.
Suppers
HUMBLE PIE Slow cooked tender braised beef, carrots, onions, mashed potato. RADIATORE & CHEESE Creamy cheddar, pasta, cracker topping, served with toasted garlic ciabatta
Sandwiches
ed potato base, The Humble Pie has a flavorful mash ed for hours to brais been has topped with a beef that carrots and onions. with ed topp It’s . apart fall it make
GRILLED CHEESE Extra sharp cheddar, tomato, bacon on sourdough. Served with Humble chips or fries.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 45
kitchen confidential something to eat even when we get out late. We have always enjoyed going there, but after all the well wishes and patronage from the Geaghan brothers, we are very happy to reciprocate the love. What advice would you give to another foodie interested in opening his/her own restaurant? I would want anyone who enjoys food to realize that this is a labor of love. It's not always glamorous. You find yourself waking up early and going to bed late. So definitely, love what you do!
more info HUMBLE COMFORT FOOD & SPIRITS 518 SOUTH MAIN STREET, BREWER 307-7370 Website: facebook.com/ humblefoodandspirits
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday Description: Humble Comfort specializes in comfort food and offers a full bar. The family friendly restaurant also offers take-out.
Humble pie, made with slow roasted beef. (Left) Barbecue chicken nachos made with house made potato chips.
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arts & culture
Bobby Russell in the studio at WKIT in Bangor.
Station
Identification
F
or the past
25 years, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone in Eastern Maine who, at least once a week, hasn’t heard at least a snippet of WKIT 100.3 FM. Whether it’s playing in the waiting room while you’re getting your engine worked on, blasting out of the kitchen in a local restaurant, or on the stereo in your own car, WKIT is darned near ubiquitous. One of the guys responsible for that signature blend of classic rock, blues and contemporary rock — and for the sense of humor that permeates just about everything on-air — is program director Bobby Russell, who’s been with the station since it switched to classic rock in 1990. Russell, a Brewer native who’s spent most of his nearly 40-year radio career in Maine, talked to Bangor Metro about the music, being honest, and rediscovering his love of vinyl records. 48 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
WKIT’s Bobby Russell talks the future of radio, being honest and his top 5 favorite bands of all time. STORY & PHOTO BY EMILY BURNHAM What got you into radio? My dad worked part time for Channel 5, and I used to tag along with him. That’s when radio was in the same building as TV. I would see the guys doing their work, guys like Bill Mack and Don Perry, doing radio shows. I just thought it looked so cool. I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Eventually, I went to the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. I grew up in Eddington and graduated from Brewer High, and aside from a brief stint in the late 80s at WSTW in Wilmington, Delaware, I’ve been here ever since. Delaware was a very strange market. I worked with some great people, but it wasn’t for me. It was adult contemporary, and at that time, it was New Kids on the Block and stuff like that. Yikes! I was trying to do my schtick and play my music but it wasn’t the right fit… Word got out I was
looking for a job in Maine, and Barry Darling, who was the GM at the time, said they wanted to change the format. They wanted to change it to a rock station. That was 1989. You’ve seen so many changes in the media landscape in general and in radio in particular — now that we’re well into the digital age, what HASN’T changed? There have been so many changes, and I hear all the time what’s going to kill us next. It was going to be satellite radio. It was going to be podcasting. And yet, we’re still here! And I think for WKIT, for us, the thing that’s important is our listeners. There is a real connection between the people on air and the listeners. And, there’s not many stations left with on-air staff 24 hours a day. In Maine, we’re it. If someone calls us, there’s al-
ways someone to pick up the phone. Even at three in the morning. That’s the same now as it was 20 years ago. What makes Bangor and WKIT special? The radio station as a whole has a personality. That’s something we’ve honed over the years. There’s a sense of fun we have, and we try to convey that on the air. There’s a sense of humor that’s not forced. It’s real. It’s who we are. We’re Mainers, and I don’t try to be anything other than what I am. I think people relate to that. You’re almost part of the family. I go to this thing called Morning Show Boot Camp, where morning show guys get together and swap ideas, and this guy, Brother Wease, out of Rochester, always says that you’re never really going to be yourself on the radio until you’re absolutely honest with your listeners. Until they know everything about you, it’s never gonna ring true. They want to hear about everything, from your grandkids to your colonoscopy. I’ll talk about anything. Besides being on air and working behind the scenes. You’re of course a music fan. What do you really love? Well, I really love what we’re playing on WZLO, which is WKIT’s sister station, which is adult alternative. There’s some fabulous music out there that people just do not know about. I’ve been loving Patty Griffin, and JJ Grey and Mofro, and Grace Potter, and My Morning Jacket. We’ve always played a lot of new music on WKIT, too. We’ll program new stuff from bands like Seether or Five Finger Death Punch, but we try to get some other stuff in there too. Most classic rock stations, they pick the top 500 songs of all time, play them all, shuffle them, and play them all again. We don’t do that. OK: Top 5 favorite bands of all time. My top five favorite bands? Hmm. The Beatles. Poco. Pink Floyd. Herman’s Hermits. The Young Rascals. But I also love new stuff like My Morning Jacket, and Dawes, and Blitzen Trapper. I’m a guy in his 60s. The best part of the job, besides being on-air, is listening to new music. I recently redid my garage, and I dug out all my vinyl records. Set up a stereo system. Rosie and I were out there, with the gas fireplace going, drinking wine. I love that that’s come back around. I love that people are into records again.
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per spectives “My Side of the Mountain” 2013, oil on linen
“Summercut 9” 2015, woodblock print on kozo
Meghan Brady “Hook, Starry Dome” 2015, oil on canvas
50 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
“Summercut 15” 2015, woodblock print on kozo
“Spring Moon Dog” 2015, oil on canvas
“A Little Bit of Too Much 2” 2015, oil on canvas
M
eghan Brady,
who lives and works in Camden, is a painter who came to Maine by way of her husband and fellow painter Gideon Bok. She got her master’s degree in painting from Boston University where she studied with John Walker, another painter with strong Maine connections. Brady is an abstract painter, moving freely between different modes of printmaking, drawing and painting. She feels fortunate to live in a place that allows her the space and time to actually work. Her statewide community of supportive and invigorating artist friends is another important aspect of her love for her home state. The artist has shown in New York City and throughout New England and Maine, including Space Gallery in Portland, Perimeter Gallery in Belfast and ICON Contemporary in Brunswick. Brady is part of this year’s Portland Museum of Art biennial, curated by Alison Ferris. She’s currently working towards a show in NYC in Spring 2016 at Steven Harvey Fine Arts.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 51
what’s happening
December Dec. 31 Bangor’s Downtown Countdown
December 4 Midnight Madness and Village Green Holidays in Bar Harbor The evening begins at 4:30 p.m. on the Village Green in downtown Bar Harbor for caroling, hot cocoa, a visit from Santa and the tree lighting. Then, the MDI YMCA will host a family festival from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and then from 8 p.m. to midnight, the Midnight Madness sale will offer steep discounts at Bar Harbor boutiques. A raffle to win two plane tickets through Cape Air will go all night as well. barharborinfo.com 52 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
December 4-5 Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers present “The Grinch” The Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers are back on the Stanley Subaru Stage at the Grand Theatre in Ellsworth, with their holiday hilarity and the great curmudgeon character, The Grinch. Performances are set for 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 and 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, and tickets are available at the door. grandonline.org December 5 Bangor Rotary Festival of Lights Parade This annual tradition, set for 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, rolls its way through downtown Bangor in a beautiful display of twinkling lights and local pride. Sponsored by the Bangor Rotary, and of course, Santa will be there as well. bangorrotary.org December 5-6 29th annual Christmas by the Sea A weekend celebration of the holiday season in Camden, Rockport and Rockland. Parade, community tree lighting, and musical entertainment.
Holiday sales and dining specials; photos and children’s story hour with Santa, who arrives by boat. mainedreamvacation.com. December 3-27 Penobscot Theatre’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” This interactive radio play-style adaptation of Frank Capra’s cinematic classic, adapted by Joe Landry, enfolds the audience in the life and times of George Bailey, a good man who changed the world – not in the way he expected, but in ways that mattered. Surely “no man is a failure who has friends” and no Christmas is complete without a trip to Bedford Falls. Tickets are available online. penobscottheatre.org December 12 21st annual Maine Indian Basketmakers Holiday Market Free and open to the public, this event is the largest holiday gathering of Maine Indian artists in New England and features award-winning members of the Maine Indian Basketmakers Alliance. It is much more than a sale, as visitors
PHOTOS: BDN FILE
December 3 Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis Jazz legend Wynton Marsalis and the jazz orchestra of Lincoln Center play a concert at the Collins Center for the Arts in Orono, drawing from its vast repertoire, including compositions and arrangements by Duke Ellington; Count Basie; Thelonious Monk; Dizzy Gillespie; Benny Goodman; Charles Mingus; Chick Corea and others. Tickets are $49-$77 and are available by calling 1-800-622-TIXX. collinscenterforthearts.com
have an opportunity to learn about Maine Indian history and culture, hear traditional language spoken, learn about Maine Indian music and dance traditions, watch artists demonstrate these ancient art forms throughout the day, and purchase one of a kind art from basketmakers, carvers, birchbark artists and jewelers. It’s set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Hudson Museum at the Collins Center for the Arts at the University of Maine. umaine.edu/hudsonmuseum December 12 Unity College Murder Mystery Dinner The Hallowell Open Theater Troupe presents a modern interpretation of an classic mystery: In 1817 the world's foremost playboy, the future King of England, hosted the future Tsar of Russia and other guests to one of history's most legendary feasts prepared by the world's greatest chef, at his iniquitous love den, the Royal Pavilion. Hors d'oeuvres and adult drinks at 6 p.m. in the gallery, followed by a three course dinner in the banquet hall at the Unity College Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $50 per person online. uccpa.unity.edu December 13 Kenny Rogers: Once Again It’s Christmas The gambler makes a stop at Bangor’s Cross Insurance Center for a special holiday show, featuring classic Christmas tunes and special guest vocalist Linda Davis. Tickets are $38 to $78 dollars and the show is at 7:30 p.m.; tickets available online. crossinsurancecenter.com December 13 Danú: A Christmas Gathering Hailing from historic County Waterford, Danú is one of the leading traditional Irish ensembles of today. Their standing-room-only concerts throughout Ireland are true events featuring high-energy performances and a glorious mix of ancient Irish music and new repertoire. Their Christmas show is a longstanding favorite. Tickets are available by calling 1-800-622-TIXX. collinscenterforthearts.com
Dec. 4-5 Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers present “The Grinch”
Dec. 5 Bangor Rotary Festival of Lights Parade
Dec. 12 21st annual Maine Indian Basketmakers Holiday Market
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 53
Dec. 19 & 20 Bangor Symphony Orchestra and Robinson Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Dec. 16 Thomas Hill Standpipe Winter Holiday Tour
December 13 Downeast Singers December Concert Downeast Singers’ annual holiday concert this year features seasonal music for harp and chorus, with conductor Anthony Antolini, harp soloist Virginia Flanagan and Jennifer McIvor on piano. The concert is set for 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Camden Opera House; tickets are available at the box office. camdenoperahouse.com December 16 Thomas Hill Standpipe Winter Holiday Tour Lovers of Bangor’s iconic Thomas Hill Standpipe can bundle and take in the view from the top with the quarterly tour of the building – this time with a holiday theme, and even a visit from Santa. The event is completely free, and is set for 2-5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16. bangorwater.org December 17 Premiere of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Theaters statewide will offer special midnight screenings of the premiere of one of the most highly anticipated movies of the decade: “Stars Wars: The Force Awakens.” Theaters hosting events include the Criterion Theatre in Bar Harbor, the Colonial Theatre in Belfast and the Nickelodeon Theatre in Portland.
Dec. 31 Bangor’s Downtown Countdown
54 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
December 31 Bangor’s Downtown Countdown The ninth annual Downtown Countdown will once again feature a huge array of entertainment, kid’s activities, dancing, food and generalized revelry, beginning at 4 p.m. and lasting into the first few hours of 2016. It’s the state’s largest New Year’s Eve event. All
PHOTOS: BDN FILE
December 19 and 20 Bangor Symphony Orchestra and Robinson Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” Holiday magic returns to the Collins Center with the BSO’s annual presentation of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. The timeless tale of Clara, her Nutcracker, and their adventures in the Land of Sweets is brought to life with a full orchestra, dancers, and scenery in this beautiful production. bangorsymphony.org
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120 SEASON
events are free unless otherwise noted; a full schedule can be found online. countdownbangor.com December 31 18th Annual New Year’s By the Bay, Belfast This celebration includes events happening all around town. There will be music, dancing, magic, food, and more in a family-friendly environment. Purchase a button for entry into all events. 2 pm to midnight. $18 adults; $5 youth; free for children under the age of 5. 323-1748 • nybb.org December 31 New Year’s Eve Sardine & Maple Leaf Drop, Eastport Where else can you see a gigantic sardine and maple leaf descend from above? Nowhere but Eastport. The maple leaf drops at 11 p.m. – a.k.a. midnight Atlantic Time, in honor of our Canadian friends and neighbors – and the sardine at midnight. eastportchamber.net
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aimee & amy try...
Who We Are.. With a grand total of 4 children ages 0-8, Bangor Metro staffers Aimee Thibodeau and Amy Allen are well versed in keeping kids busy. Each month we’ll try a new project and share the results – be they great or disasterous.
C
Felting Soap Dreaming of a holiday with fun activities to keep little hands busy and clean? Felting soap is a creative and easy craft that makes a great group activity. BY AIMEE THIBODEAU & AMY ALLEN
raft time
with little ones is fun, but also can be frustrating as attention spans often aren’t very long for most. For our holiday gift-giving project, we decided that working as a group might be best, so we invited friends. And we were right! Amy’s mom Jayne served as our teacher — which likely helped because it wasn’t mom telling them what to do — and taught the kiddos (and us) how to make felted soap. The process was easy, and although a little wet and soapy, the mess was minimal. Perfection isn’t required and as long as you don’t mind crazy kid color combinations, these make excellent gifts for teachers and family. You might even find bath time a little easier because the kids will want to use their creations to scrub up before bed.
Supplies • Bar soap (scented or unscented is fine. A beautiful locally made soap makes a great gift, but whatever you’ve got on hand will work) • Roving in a variety of colors (that’s wool before it’s turned into yarn) • Buckets or large mixing bowls • Old nylons • Water
We invited friends to help out with this project. Front row: Aimee, Gunner, Finn, Chloe, Michele and Auckland; back row: Maggie and Kaileigh.
56 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Step 1: Have the kids select their soap and the base color of roving.
Step 2: Get rid of any “sharp” soap corners and edges by pounding them smooth.
Step 3: Pull the roving apart slightly and wrap the soap to create a base layer.
Step 4: Wet the soap in a bowl of warm water. Continue to smooth the roving, adding a layer to any bare spots.
Step 5: If they want to use more than one color, continue to add thin layers of roving until they’ve got their desired effect.
Step 6: Cut the nylons and tie a knot at one end. Put the soap in the nylon and tie the other end.
Step 7: Continue to rub the soap in the nylons until the roving is flattened and compact.
Step 8: Cut the knot off one end of the nylons and set the soap out to dry.
Step 9: To finish off the soap as a gift, tie with a simple piece of ribbon, burlap or jute. A small handmade gift tag, penned by your kids, will make it the perfect personal gift.
Project Review • Degree of Difficulty: Super easy! The kids loved making their own color combos. • Average Time: 20 minutes to felt an approximately 4 by 4-inch block of soap.
Sponsored by
• Degree of Fun According to the Kids & Moms:
1:
We better get paid for this.
5:
Fun, but once was enough.
10:
Super fun, let’s make one for everyone!
A universally loved project. Fun, simple and quick for the kiddos, minimal frustration and easy clean up for the grown-ups. We recommend inviting friends and making mimosas for a fun pre-holiday or school vacation get together! www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 57
metro
family
It’s the Effort With toddler shop-a-holics in tow, sometimes it’s the effort, not the thought, that counts. BY ASHLEY THORNTON
N
ow that I
That Counts
have children, shopping trips to Target are chaotic, hurried, and loud. With the holidays approaching, it is inevitable that my semi-regular Target trips will become more frequent. Soon, the stores will become crowded with holiday shoppers. The music will change. The prices will change. What will stay the same, however, is the fact
As I cruise by the women’s clothing section, my hand mindlessly wanders to a sweater and blouse because I deserve a reward for braving a shopping trip with two toddlers. I convince my oldest child to hop on the front of the cart and hang on by driving fast and crazy. Meanwhile, the 1 year old is tasting most of the dollar spot items, and grabbing at anything she can reach in the cart. Suddenly, we
One-year-old Quinn demonstrates what shopping with toddlers is really like.
58 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
that I instantly regret taking my children out in public as soon as I step foot in the store. The dollar spot at Target, with goodies $3 and under, has an instant magnetic draw to my 3-year-old son. He sprints for it as though there is a bowl full of free candy. I yell to him to stay by me, and struggle to get my 1 year old in the cart as she squirms around to keep her eyes on her brother. I settle her down amidst a barrage of “Look, Mom!” as Michael picks up every item in the aisle and tosses it into our cart. I try to focus and keep to my list. We came for paper towels, diapers, a cheap printer, and baby socks. I notice that my cart it is already accumulating a variety of other items.
halt as Michael has decided to stomp his foot down on the floor as we were cruising at Mach 10 around the corner. Blood curdling screams ensue as I abandon my position as pilot and console the little human with the bright idea to put on the brakes. He consents to sit in the large part of the cart with his loot (which will make it harder for me to shed these items as we travel around the store) as long as I agree to make a detour into the books and movies section right away. I remember the printer. The only obstacle in my way are the 10 aisles filled with irresistible toys. I then spend the next 15 minutes coaxing my son along the aisles, trying with much difficulty to avoid accumulating more items in my cart. The worst items are large, because those aren’t easy to conceal when you are sailing down the cracker aisle, and try to shove a box of super hero figurines onto the shelf without a store attendant or your maniacal mini-me catching you. I manage to sneak away from the toy section with a mini red shopping cart that he is filling to the brim as I browse the clearance printers. Four seconds later, I am forced into my decision as Michael sprints around a corner with skills comparable to an Olympic runner. I yell to him eight times before his attention
PHOTOS: (THIS PAGE) ASHLEY THORNTON; (SHOPPING CART) ANDREY POPOV/THINKSTOCK.COM
Soon, the stores will become crowded with holiday shoppers. The music will change. The prices will change. What will stay the same, however, is the fact that I instantly regret taking my children out in public as soon as I step foot in the store.
is caught by something on the shelf and he comes to a sudden stop. I persuade him to race me straight down the middle aisle, where I frantically grab most of the items on the end caps, because I have lost track of my list completely. Our race ends at the paper goods section, amidst assailing judgmental looks, as I clearly have very little control over my children — one running, one screaming from her perch in the cart. I catch a glimpse of paper towels at the end of the aisle, and without checking prices I toss them in, as well. I grab some cookies that have also been displayed for people like me, rip into them, and try to quiet my daughter with a snack. We stand in line at the checkout, and I play defense for all the impulse-buy items displayed at toddler height. I weed through Michael’s mini cart and ditch anything that I can while he is not looking. He shops the candy display while I furiously load our items onto the conveyor belt, complete with a discard pile. I park the little cart and explain to Michael that we don’t need it at home, it was just
fun to use it around the store. I then turn and explain to the cashier that my son picked out the final pile of items on the conveyer belt, and I do not want them. She nods her head with an exasperated expression. Turning back to the cart, I notice that my baby is turned around backwards, standing up in the seat section of the cart, and about to tumble out of it, while screeching to high heaven. I grab her with one arm, swipe my card with the other, quickly unwrap the Juicy Drop Pop that Michael had to have, and convince him to lay down on the bottom section of the cart, because it will be fun. As I arrive home, and unpack my purchases, I concede that this particular trip may have been a fail. I left the store with much more, and only two of the items on my original list — a printer and paper towels. With two children, a husband, both sets of parents, two grandmothers, siblings, and friends to buy for, the holiday season seems like a cruel injustice. So, to all of you that receive presents from me this season, please be kind when you
open up your box (or more likely a bag, because wrapping presents with these children is almost as difficult as shopping) remember that it’s the effort (not thought) that counts.
ASHLEY THORNTON of Milford is a mom of two rambunctious toddlers. Read more of her work at BangorME.macaronikid.com.
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 59
metro sports
Takedown
Artists
UMaine wrestling club gives students more than just mat time. BY AIMEE THIBODEAU
T
hey practice
pose, (Top to bottom) Wrestlers compete, NCWA and are congratulated at the 2015 College Wrestling Championships.
five days a week for at least two hours each day. They often are bloodied and bruised. They aren’t receiving any athletic scholarships, and when they win national championships, there’s no motorcade to escort them back to campus. Members of the University of Maine wrestling club aren’t dedicated to the sport for money or the potential to go pro. “They’re there because they want to be there and they want to compete,” said volunteer coach Aaron James. “Wrestling is an extremely humble sport. You might be champion one day and get your head bashed off the mat the next.” James grew up wrestling for Calais in middle and high school, and he knows firsthand that the sport is more about heart and determination than recognition. Now 36 and owner of the Bangor-based fine diamond jewelry store Designs by Aaron, James doesn’t like to take credit for what has become one of the best club wrestling teams in the region. “We’ve had qualifiers at nationals every year,” he said.
“Wrestling is an extremely humble sport. You might be champion one day and get your head bashed off the mat the next.” Instead, although James made the initial phone call three years ago to try and start a club team at UMaine, he is adamant that “it takes more than one person to do it.” Now in its third season, the club team has about 20 members on its men’s team and two women, including Samantha Frank. Frank is from Windham and wrestled all through high school. While she was offered a college scholarship at another school to wrestle, she made the personal decision that it was time for a break from the sport. Then she found out UMaine had a club wrestling and, after joining the club team, ended up beating one of the girls at nationals from the school who originally had offered her the scholarship. “She was a national champion [and] won most outstanding wrestler in the country last year. She pinned a two-time defending champion,” James said. “We have kids who are multi-time state champions on the team, and people who didn’t even make it to states [in high school].” He noted that some on the team attend UMaine solely because of its club wrestling program, which is run by volunteer coaches Aaron James, Don McCann, William Osmer, Mike Carter, and Jacob Powers. One of those who, admittedly, isn’t always a star on the mat, is Cooper Power of Raymond. An exercise kinesiology major who graduated from Windham High School, Power said he won only one match his first year wrestling in college. But the sport has kept in him from giving up. “My freshmen year here, the wrestling team here did not exist and I applied to transfer multiple times after thinking college was not for me,” Power explained. “Then, in the spring of my freshmen year I went to a meeting for a prospective wrestling club for the following year and after attending and meeting the coaches ... I knew that this is what I was missing from my college experience.” 60 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF MAINE ORONO NCWA WRESTLING TEAM
–Aaron James
Last year he won a few more matches, and Power is hoping he’s got a good season ahead of him. Pin or no pin, the experience isn’t about his athletic record on the mat. “The wrestling team is the single greatest reason I have been able to motivate myself to stay through college,” Power said. It’s that same reasoning that keeps James and the other volunteer coaches dedicated to the sport — paying their own way to take the team to competitions throughout the country. “Wrestling has changed my life and I owe a lot to the sport and what it taught me — not just how to wrestle but how to be a human being, — goal setting, getting knocked down a few rungs and getting back up,” James said. “For all the coaches involved, it’s changed their lives in some shape or form [and this] is an opportunity to give back.” Not only do the coaches volunteer their time, the team members also spend time mentoring youth wrestlers and refereeing peewee tournaments. “They’ve got an internal drive and don’t need external recognition,” James said. “They’re the ones that put in the work; I just have a great seat to watch, that’s all.” James explained that most kids who have had life handed to them don’t often excell at wrestling because they lack the heart and determination it takes to survive on — and off — the mat. “[Wrestling] gives a kid that came from a small or big part of New England an instant identity,” said James. “Zachary Ragot is from Washington County ... when he steps on the mat, everybody knows who he is. And it’s a mutual respect with everybody that goes to wrestling practice.” Ragot, a second year forestry student from Whitneyville is another example of how wrestling has provided him with direction in his post-secondary career. “I found purpose when I started wrestling in high school and again when I started school at UMaine,” Ragot said. “I am not, and never have been, very well off, so I have an extremely busy schedule working three jobs, taking on a full course load and committing to the wrestling team. I do it all because I love the drive and purpose I have when I am competing in such a vigorous sport.”
www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 61
woods & waters
The Gift of Get creative this holiday season and give a real Maine experience instead of more stuff. BY BOB DUCHESNE
62 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
I
Experience
’ve got enough
stuff. I really don’t want any more stuff. In fact, I look around at all of my stuff and I know I’m not ever going to use some of it again. I’m talking about you, rowing machine. Gift-giving season is upon us. I could use a new sweater, and some of my shirts are getting a little ratty, but I don’t even want to hint that I need anything tangible for Christmas because I’ve got enough stuff. I’ve reached the age where my need to collect stuff has diminished, but my desire to collect experiences has increased. Call it a bucket list if you must, but there are things I always meant to do, and didn’t. I learned via Facebook that an old friend from high school celebrated her 60th birthday by skydiving. Her sons paid for the thrill. Personally, I question the wisdom of exiting a perfectly good airplane, but I understand that there is no time like the present to do the things one always meant to do.
I always meant to fly fish. I meant to paddle the Allagash. I meant to kayak to an offshore island for an overnight. Somehow, I just haven’t gotten around to it yet. Maine is full of outdoor experiences from mild to wild. Most can be offered as a present merely by means of a simple gift certificate, which is also easier to wrap than a sweater. Let’s start with something relatively sedate: moose watching. Many companies in Maine offer tours. Wherever there is a moose, there is a guide eager to show you a moose. It can be done by van, boat or plane. Speaking of planes, scenic flights around Moosehead Lake, Baxter State Park and Acadia National Park are popular and relatively inexpensive. Or you can spice it up. At Bar Harbor Airport, you can go up in a biplane or glider. Most of the flights over the Maine woods are accomplished in float planes. In Pittsfield, you can take a flight, and
PHOTOS: BDN FILE
maine
then jump out of the plane. Again, I have no wish to argue with gravity. If gravity wants me to keep my feet on the ground, I’m OK with that. But for others looking for that once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s surprisingly affordable. Surely you know someone who has never seen a whale. Just off the top of my head, I can think of eight tour boats in Maine that can make that happen. My favorites are Bar Harbor Whale Watch and Robertson’s Sea Tours in Milbridge. I can think of 10 tour boats in Maine that can get you a look at a puffin. At least two boats can get you a whale and puffin on the same trip. Whales move around, and they can be elusive. Lighthouses stay put, and there is a growing number of people who make special trips to see them, “collecting” lighthouse visits as a hobby. Unlike collecting stamps and coins, collecting lighthouses won’t clutter the closet. The United States Lighthouse Society has created an official lighthouse passport. Collectors can get their passport stamped at each lighthouse, attesting to the visit. At some of these lighthouses, it’s easy to
get the stamp. But some of the offshore lighthouses can only be stamped by a tour boat operator. It turns out, collecting lighthouses is tougher than it looks.
How about a sled dog tour? Horseback ride? Whitewater rafting? Snowmobile rental? Paddle adventure? Saltwater fishing trip? Maine has a kaleidoscope of
I’ve reached the age where my need to collect stuff has diminished, but my desire to collect experiences has increased. Call it a bucket list if you must, but there are things I always meant to do, and didn’t. My mother started warning her kids more than 30 years ago that she didn’t want any more stuff for Christmas. In the past, I’ve given my parents gift certificates to an inn or B&B. Personally, I collect sporting camps. I love ‘em – the more rustic the better. Give me a winter cabin with a gas light, a pot belly stove, and a toilet that I have to flush with a bucket, and I’m a happy camper. So, with the holidays approaching, I challenge you to get creative and give a Maine adventure instead of more stuff.
outdoor adventures and experiences to offer, and most can be packaged into a gift certificate. Maybe the best place to start looking for ideas is the Maine Office of Tourism website. Go to visitmaine.com. Enough stuff.
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
savvy seniors
AARP is looking for volunteers to make a difference in the lives of seniors across the state. BY JANE MARGESSON
64 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
W
ith the start
of the next legislative session just around the corner, AARP Maine is looking for volunteers to help with our advocacy initiatives. What matters to you? AARP is gearing up to take action on matters that affect quality of life for Mainers age 50-plus. Such issues include preserving landline phone service, especially in rural areas where cellular service is spotty; providing a retirement savings plan for workers whose employers don’t offer a plan; preserving access to affordable prescription drugs; and easing the burden on family caregivers. We have also been working with local cities and towns to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communi-
ties program. The Network is a tool that can be used by AARP staff and others to help local leaders prepare and ultimately change their communities to become great places for everyone to live regardless of age. There are many ways our volunteers work with us and we strive to make their experience rewarding, enriching and fun! As an AARP volunteer you will play a valuable part in raising awareness about the issues that are most important to Maine seniors. AARP has more than 230,000 members in Maine and we want to help engage our members by providing unbiased information about major issues a lot of the people in the state face today. Equally as impor-
PHOTO: WAVEBREAKMEDIA/THINKSTOCK.COM
Volunteers Wanted
tant, we want to hear from our Maine members and listen to what they have to say about issues of concern to them and their families. Our current team of volunteers is a diverse group of people from Maine, with a variety of different talents. Some enjoy speaking with small and large groups of people in their communities, while others excel behind the scenes. Every voice and every bit of help makes a difference. We offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities, so no matter what your talents and skill-set, or how much time you have to offer, there is a place for you at AARP Maine! In Bangor, we are looking for volunteers who would be willing to host small community coffees or forums once a month so we can start to talk about the
As an AARP volunteer you will play a valuable part in raising awareness about the issues that are most important to Maine seniors. issues that are of importance to the Bangor community. We are also looking for public speakers who can raise awareness about AARP’s work in Maine. As a volunteer, you will be fully trained and prepared to help us run voter workshops, staff tables at events, speak to community groups, and help coordinate member engagement activities. You will become a part of the AARP Maine team, made up of friendly and motivated AARP staff and volunteers – all working together toward the common goal of bettering the lives of Maine seniors. If you share this goal with us and would like to learn more about how you can get involved as a volunteer with AARP Maine, please contact us! For more information about volunteering opportunities, call Jay at 1-866554-5380 or email me@aarp.org. We look forward to hearing from you! JANE MARGESSON is the AARP Maine communications director. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 65
real estate
Making it Homey
for the Holidays
T
he song may
Tips to get your home ready for holiday guests. COURTESY OF METRO NEWS SERVICE
say, “there’s no place like home for the holidays,” yet many people find their holidays are just as well spent in someone else's abode. The popular motor club federation AAA says that more than 90 million Americans journey 50 miles or more from home during the year-end holiday season, and each year the number of travelers increases. When opening their homes to loved ones and friends, hosts want to make their guests feel welcome. Fortunately, there are many ways to do just that.
Establish a cozy nook
Determine where your guests will be sleeping. Do not worry if you do not have a separate guest room. There are other things you can do, such as giving up your own bedroom for the duration of their stay. Otherwise, turn another spot into a guest area. A den or living room with a pullout sofa also might work. Children's rooms also are another idea. Let young children camp out in the living room or the basement while you turn their rooms into spots for your guests. The kids will appreciate the novelty of setting up sleeping bags, and guests will get some measure of privacy.
Have separate guest amenities
Invest in some lush towels and washcloths reserved for guests. Also, have comfortable sheets on hand. Be sure all linens are freshly washed, and have a drawer or two available in case guests want to unpack their suitcases. Keep some toiletries stocked as well. A few extra toothbrushes, mouthwash, soap and other personal items may be needed to accommodate forgetful guests.
Provide creature comforts
Guests won't be used to the rooms in your house, so be sure that you offer a light for a nightstand and an alarm clock. Nightlights placed in the bathroom or hallway can illuminate unfamiliar surroundings. Keep a fan on hand so that guests can adjust the temperature in their rooms and also if they need a little white noise while they sleep. A tray with books, magazines and the wifi code also may be appreciated.
If possible, devote one bathroom in the house for guests' use. This way they will have all the privacy they need. Ask if there are any special products they like to use in the bathroom, helping to cut down on the items guests need to bring with them.
Stock favorite foods
Make a list of the foods that your guests enjoy and plan a shopping trip to stock up on these items. Encourage guests to have free reign of the kitchen, helping themselves to snacks or whatever is desired. Remember to ask about any dietary restrictions, including allergies.
Deep clean your home
Clear away unnecessary clutter and give floors a fresh wash or vacuuming, especially if you have pets. Pay special attention to showers and the bathroom itself. You don't want guests tripping over your belongings. A few special and simple touches can quickly prepare a home for holiday hosting and entertaining. 66 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
PHOTOS: THOMAS-BETHGE, TYCOON751, TERRY J ALCORN, BCFC, PXHIDALGO/THINKSTOCK.COM
Separate bathroom facilities
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MADE IN MAINE
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Special Section Featuring Northern Maine
by Bangor Metro
Snow combined with fall foliage to create a beautiful backdrop for the first Aroostook Brew Fest.
Brew Fest
Success
A little snow didn’t stop success at Aroostook Brew Fest.
PHOTOS: DAVE ALLEN
BY ANTHONY BRINO, BDN STAFF
F
ive-hundred people
from near and far descended on Mars Hill in October to celebrate the Maine craft beer frontier. More than 30 beers, ciders and wines from 15 Maine and New England breweries were on tap under the heated and packed tents at the Aroostook County Brew Fest, at the base of Mars Hill. A collaboration of Bigrock Mountain, the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, Aroostook Hops and the Maine Malt House, the festival was the first large craft beer event in the region — and it happened to coincide with peak fall foliage and a couple inches of snow. “To say that the first annual Aroostook County Brew Festival was a success would be an understatement,” said Theresa Fowler, the chamber’s executive director, noting that the event sold out. Among the traditional and conventional craft beers were “wet hop” ales, made with fresh hops grown in Westfield by Aroostook Hops farmers Krista Delahunty and Jason Johnston; a rhubarb Kolsch by Blank Canvas Brewery of Brewer; a coffee porter by Tumbledown Brewery of Farmington; a blueberry ale by Atlantic Brewing of Bar
Harbor; plus ciders, fruit wines and half-a-dozen variety of beers. “I liked all of them,” said Josh Buck of the Buck Farms’ Maine Malt House, a Mapleton-based startup supplier whose malts were used by breweries including Geaghan Brothers in Bangor and Allagash and Gritty’s in Portland. “We had a great response from the brewers,” Buck said. “That was positive for us to hear.” The event was sponsored by the Northeastland Hotel, EDP Renewables, Farm Credit East and others, and it was a chance to feature northern Maine’s agricultural potential in the craft beer economy, Fowler said. “Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce wanted to promote the business aspect of growing hops and malting grain,” she said. “There are a variety of agricultural products that can be developed in Aroostook County and malting is a value-added operation.” Bigrock Mountain, Mars Hill’s ski slopes and lodge, also raised money for its Groomer’s Fund, selling 250 $100 raffle tickets, and awarding a $5,000 first place ticket, $2,000 second place, $1,000 third place, plus 22 $100 payouts. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 69
A Holiday to Remember
70 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
Presque Isle provided national tree in 1959.
I
ORIGINAL STORY BY JEN LYNDS APPEARED IN THE BDN ON DEC. 10, 2010
n 1959,
the city of Presque Isle was marking its 100th birthday. Celebrating 100 years of anything is exciting, but the occasion was made even more poignant when the city was selected to supply the national Christmas tree. Kim Smith, a writer and a member of the Presque Isle Historical Society, knows that many younger residents are not aware of that fact. That is why she chose it as a subject for her second annual holiday lecture at Northern Maine Community College on Tuesday. Smith spoke briefly about the history behind the president lighting a national Christmas tree each year — the tradition originated with Calvin Coolidge in 1923 — and she talked specifically about the 1959 national Christmas tree. The 70-foottall white spruce, the only national Christmas tree ever to come from Maine, according to records provided by the National Park Service, came from the Alice Kimball farm on Parsons Road. The 85-year-old tree was provided for the Pageant of Peace, which encompassed other activities such as music and singing that became part of the tree lighting ceremony beginning in 1954.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESQUE ISLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Thousands gathered for the 1959 lighting ceremony for the national Christmas tree in Washington, D.C. In the foreground of the photo (bottom right) are President Dwight D. Eisenhower and First Lady Mamie Eisenhower.
"This was really a big event in our city, and it was big news around here back in the late 1950s," Smith, an experienced lecturer and Presque Isle's 2010 Citizen of the Year, said. "It really put the city on the map." Planning for Presque Isle's 1959 centennial fete began a year earlier, and organizers began bouncing around the idea of providing the national tree. "In March of 1958, the city learned that they would be providing the tree," Smith said. "Up until that time, the national tree had always come from a national forest, and it had always come from a location west of the Mississippi. So this was really a historic occasion in many ways." It also was the first tree provided by a private citizen. The process to select the tree was detailed, according to Smith. Officials searched the city for several months, and the final choice had to be approved by federal officials. The tree was cut down and packaged by five former Maine Public Service Co. workers for shipment by rail to Washington, D.C. Two of the workers, Bill Robinson and Dick Gillen, spoke to the Bangor Daily News about their memories of that time. The men said several other people were present when the white spruce tree was cut down, including city officials, members of the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce and railroad representatives. Robinson and Gillen said it took close to eight hours to cut and package the tree and put it on a rail car for the trip to the nation's capital. Two men at a time, with the five workers alternating turns, used a crosscut saw to fell the tree. Once in Washington, the tree was officially lit by President Dwight D. Eisenhower during a ceremony that included singing, music and other entertainment. The tradition of states sending trees to the nation's capital ended in 1978, when a Colorado blue spruce was planted on the Ellipse, a 52-acre park located just south of the White House fence. Other than pictures and notes in historical records, Presque Isle received nothing for providing the tree, according to Smith, and it is not known if anyone from the city traveled to see it lit. "It really is an interesting part of city and state history," said Smith. "It is not something that every city can claim, which makes it all the more special."
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last
word
DISCLAIMER: The following article contains thoughts of and allusions to the traditional holiday of Christmas. If such mention causes you pain, distress, low credit, constipation or general offense, please consider not reading any further.
A
s you are
12 Days of
Merry Gift
Giving Reinventing the 12 Days of Christmas so you don’t wind up with a house full of lords a leaping. BY CHRIS QUIMBY
well aware, a bit of controversy has arisen during the last few years regarding those who willfully and unwisely spew such vitriolic public mantras as “Merry Christmas.” Please know that in discussing this holiday, my intention is not to offend. I mainly wish to articulate my thoughts on how we could all make this Christmas season more fun. For years, I have lamented that the celebration of the holiday, although enjoyable, speeds by much too quickly. Weeks of anticipation seem to extinguish in a flash before one must wait another year. That is why I propose that this year we celebrate the 12 days of Christmas. Please be clear. I am not interested in receiving a partridge nor a tree that bears pears. I need no French hens nor maids a milking. The latter is, in fact, bewildering. I can imagine no scenario in which that gift would not be creepy at best. “What do you get for the man who has everything? Eight women engaged in the task of milking a cow! Or a goat. Or who knows what?” Instead, my motivation for the suggestion is that we simply stretch the celebration out a bit. Wouldn’t it be fun? Twelve consecutive days of gift giving and receiving? But my list would need to be modified. Perhaps yours would, too. Instead of the pear tree, I would love a 12-foot by 14-foot cottage I can have built in the woods behind my house. It would have a woodstove, a bed, a small table and bathroom, and nothing else. Nobody would be allowed to bring electronics out there. You could bring a book and/or a snack. Maybe a crossword puzzle or a game. The intention would be to get away from “the world” and have some peace that normally alludes us in all of life’s distractions. I suppose if I was in the mood, I could bring a partridge to my tiny cottage, but I’m guessing he would quickly get bored or relieve himself on my bedding. One thing to consider when crafting your own list is, as in the song, the number of items increases each day. So when you imagine what you might get on the last day, think of something you’d want 12 of. And don’t be afraid to think big! Many people will rip themselves off by requesting only a dozen eggs or 12 donuts. For me? I don’t ask for much. I would be happy with 12 mighty steeds, all contributing to pulling towards me a sleigh stacked high with 100 dollar bills. And if this isn’t too much to ask, it would be nice, rather than me having to figure out my own taxes that year, if a strong wind would lift all of what I owe the government straight to Augusta and Washington.
But in all seriousness, celebrating the 12 days of Christmas does sound like a fun idea. It will take some clever planning and perhaps a bit more money, but you might find that in the end you’ve developed a new tradition that you can’t imagine having ever lived without. And maybe next year you could increase it to 24, then 48. Before you know it, every day would be Christmas, and you’d walk in and out of each business throughout the year shouting to citizens and merchants alike, “Merry Christmas!” while they quietly lodge complaints with the ACLU. 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. 72 / BANGOR METRO December 2015
IMAGE: RZAREK & ANDREA HILL/THINKSTOCK.COM
Please be clear. I am not interested in receiving a partridge nor a tree that bears pears.
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