An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Saco, Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise, Wells, Biddeford Pool, Kennebunk and Arundel.
Can the Wedding Cake House Be Saved?
April 2018, Photo by Michael D. Wilson
From the Publisher's Desk
Let Spring Come to the
Getting To Know You:
Wedding Cake House Once Again
The Gift of Sharing
Expert Contributors Publication Team Publisher: Robert Cook Designer: Kari Hinrichs Content Coordinator: Jennifer Saunders Contributing Photographer: Michael D. Wilson
So whenever I go to Suffern along the Erie track I never go by the empty house without stopping and looking back, Yet it hurts me to look at the crumbling roof and the shutters fallen apart, For I can't help thinking the poor old house is a house with a broken heart.
Your Stories
- Joyce Kilmer, from the poem, “The House with Nobody in It.”
Spring is finally upon us, and whether or not the weather decides to match the calendar, this time of year always brings me a sense of hope and excitement as we look forward to increasingly longer days, the return of songbirds and all the special events and natural wonders our communities have to offer.
Advertising Contact: Robert Cook Email: robert.cook@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 603-970-1751
While I’ve lived in southern Maine for more than 20 years now, I have to say I am more aware of all we have to be grateful for this year, and that is due in no small part to these winter months I’ve spent getting to know many of you and sharing your stories.
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: swigglesworth@bestversionmedia.com.
Kennebunk’s Wedding Cake House on Summer Street is definitely in need of some serious TLC. As our cover story by local writer Steve Hrehovcik illustrates, the home’s current owners, scores of local residents and community leaders realize this, too, and time is waning fast. For decades, the Wedding Cake House has been one of the most photographed homes in all of Maine. When one drives by the iconic home that was modeled after the Cathedral of Milan, it is almost impossible not to look at it or feel the temptation to pull over and admire it. In truth, the Wedding Cake House is not just one of the several former captain’s homes that line Summer Street. It is a work of art that was lovingly created by its original owner, George Bourne, and then lovingly restored by Mary Burnett when she purchased the home in 1983. As Cynthia Walker, the executive director of the Brick Store Museum, observes in our story, “The Wedding Cake House is a testament to the creative, hardworking people of Kennebunk’s past and future, and as a landmark, we hope to see it preserved.” To appreciate the gravity of how much Kennebunkport area residents care about the fate of the Wedding Cake House, I would like to share a conversation I had with one resident who treasured her friendship with Mary Burnett. I met her at the Live Well Campus earlier this winter, and after I introduced myself as the publisher of this magazine, she immediately asked, “Are you going to do a story about the Wedding Cake House?” I smiled and replied, “Why, yes, we are,” which pleased her, because it fueled her hope that Mary Burnett’s legacy will be preserved rather than neglected and forgotten. At one point, talking about her friend and the house made her reach for a tissue and fight back her tears. She then provided the names and numbers of few people for our writer to interview to help us convey an even deeper perspective about how much this home means to people here in the Kennebunks. From the moment we decided to feature the Wedding Cake House on the cover of our April edition, we encountered so many people who were eager to share their feelings and hopes for this beautiful structure. As the publisher, it is my hope that there will be a true community conversation that will look at all of the resources that can be brought to the table so the Wedding Cake House will enjoy the rebirth and renewal of spring that it so richly deserves. Seeing communities rise to the challenge to preserve their most treasured buildings, stately homes and historic places is a very common throughout New England, and there is no reason to believe that his trend will not be repeated on Summer Street. As the grass slowly becomes green, buds and birds return to our trees and the many signs of spring make their triumphant return, perhaps the time is right for the Wedding Cake House to rise again and enjoy a bright future within the bosom of the people who care about it the most. Happy Easter!
Publisher, Neighbors of the Kennebunks 2
Meet Jennifer Saunders
When I joined the Neighbors of the Kennebunks team back in November, I was excited about the opportunity to learn more about the places, businesses and people that make our communities unique. What I did not realize was just how touching, how inspiring those stories would be.
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My first assignment found me standing in the entrance to the Captain Lord Mansion, overwhelmed by the history and majesty of this landmark of our region. That would have been enough inspiration, but then I met husband-and-wife owners and innkeepers Rick Litchfield and Bev Davis. Their stories, their warmth and their love not only for their historic business but for Kennebunk and Kennebunkport exemplifies one of the things that make our communities so special: the commitment of local business owners to giving back.
Content Submission Deadlines: Content Due: Edition Date: December 1 January February January 1 March February 1 March 1 April April 1 May May 1 June July June 1 July 1 August August 1 September September 1 October October 1 November November 1 December
In the months that followed, I’ve had the chance to experience firsthand another positive quality that seems to know no limit in our communities: the commitment to volunteerism. In last month’s issue, I shared the story of Habitat for Humanity of York County’s ReStore. Speaking with employees and volunteers at this Kennebunk-based resource inspired many conversations with my members of my own family about the importance of gratitude and of giving back. After writing that feature, I had the pleasure of connecting with Spirit of York County Award winner Lydia Phillips, is a dedicated volunteer at ReStore, who shared her love for volunteering and being a part of the team there, from using her organizational skills to working with staff “who create an environment that promotes respect and honors our abilities by letting us go beyond routine work.”
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To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at robert.cook@bestversionmedia.com or phone 603-970-1751.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements, and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2018 Best Version Media. All Rights Reserved.
Each of the ReStore volunteers had their own story, but one message came through loud and clear: They felt their lives were enriched by helping Habitat for Humanity make a very real difference in the lives of local residents. These conversations with business owners, community members and volunteers are what I treasure most in the work I do. It is an honor to tell their stories, and I know I speak for our publisher, Robert Cook, when I say our Neighbors of the Kennebunks team is looking forward to sharing your stories as well. Please don’t hesitate to write to me at jsaunders@bestversionmedia.com, and happy spring!
Jennifer L. Saunders Content Coordinator, Neighbors of the Kennebunks
NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS
APRIL 2018
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April Feature
Kennebunk Area Residents Want Wedding Cake House Restored
To satisfy the growing desire these visitors had for souvenirs of their travels, pictures of the impressive ornate structure appeared on postcards, prints, mugs and other objects. Because of its distinctive styling — and to satisfy the curiosity and imagination of those early 20th-century visitors — Bourne’s became known as the Wedding Cake House. Inspired by the house’s confectionary look, stories began to spread that the when Bourne was a new groom, he had to leave his wife on their wedding night to catch the tide for a distant sea voyage. To honor his long-suffering bride, the yarn goes, he built the house in the form of a wedding cake when he returned. This embellishment of the facts, while untrue, has become legend and continues to get retold — often to unsuspecting and agreeable romantics. The Wedding Cake House enjoyed its second life when artist Mary Burnett purchased the home and painstakingly restored it to its original grandeur. In many ways, Burnett viewed the Wedding Cake House as a work of art and she understood the importance of preserving it for future generations. Mary Burnett’s daughter, Anne Burnett-Hidell, is an artist with a studio in Cape Porpoise. She shares the concern many have expressed about the deterioration of the building her family once called home. Burnett-Hidell has vivid memories of the extraordinary lengths her mother went to restore the building to its original grandeur. Also an accomplished artist, Burnett-Hidell’s mother painted the mural on the wall of the ornate circular staircase. When they moved into the building in 1983, the house needed serious attention. Burnett-Hidell says, “The exterior trim on the east side was held up by ropes. The historic fence had deteriorated and was replaced by a picket fence. We found the original fence in pieces in the barn. We used them along with drawings from the Library of Congress to rebuild the fence. While in need of serious care at the time, its condition was not as bad as it is today. It would be wonderful if the house comes into the hands of some-
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BY STEVE HREHOVCIK | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL D. WILSON
We would like to thank Cross Insurance for sponsoring this month’s cover story. Steeped in lore and romantic legend, Kennebunk’s Wedding Cake House is one of the most revered and photographed buildings in New England, but after more than 160 years as an iconic example of architectural achievement, the house is in need of major renovations and repair. Many in town — and beyond — are concerned about the future of this local landmark, and there are several developments in the works. Two primary factors impact the building’s future. One is the condition of the building: from the need to repaint the intricate spires to the reconstruction of deteriorating woodwork. The second is the iconic house is privately owned, which means that while local residents, town officials and visitors are concerned about the future of the building, there are limits to what can be done except by the owners of the property.
Going Back in Time Shipbuilder George Bourne and his bride Jane first occupied the building in 1825. At that time, the house — which Bourne had built — did not have the lavish facade that would one day make it world famous. Beyond the “icing on the cake” is a modest, two-story square brick building with an ell that leads to the garage. When first built, the home was known by Bourne’s neighbors as, simply, the George Bourne house.
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Cynthia Walker, executive directordirector of the Brick Store Museum in Kennebunk, is one of many area residents who would like to see the Wedding Cake House restored. Photo by Steve Hrehovcik
Approximately 20 years ago, then-owner Mary Burnett sold the Wedding Cake House to Jim Baker and Ken Douglass. When Douglass passed away two years ago, his portion of the estate went to his heirs. With the help of his nephew Hunt Edwards, Baker, who is in now in his nineties, and the heirs are in negotiations about what to do with the property.
After a successful career as a shipbuilder and sea captain, Bourne made the decision in the 1850s to remodel the exterior. Fascinated by the Gothic architecture of European churches, he used the elaborate spires of the Cathedral of Milan as the model his renovation. A skilled carpenter, he carved most of the woodwork himself.
Edwards indicates there are critical details that must be worked out before a final decision is made. Among the possible options are restoring the property to its former pristine condition at considerable expense or selling the Wedding Cake House to someone who will appreciate its value as a public treasure.
In the early 1900s, progress in transportation changed the destiny of the house forever. Southern Maine, and Kennebunk in particular, became a popular destination for travelers from Boston and New York and other visitors “from away.”
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April Feature
Chamber Column
one who takes pride in its appearance the way my mother and I did.”
Mary Burnett, an architectural restorer and historian, bought the house she had loved since she first saw it as a young college girl visiting Kennebunk.”
Part of Burnett’s legacy was also her penchant for sharing the Wedding Cake House with other people in the community who become lifelong friends. Timothy Ames, director of sales at the Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport, often house-sat when she traveled, and Burnett presented Ames with a mantle that survived a fire to the interior of the building, which he has offered to the Brick Store Museum for safekeeping. “We have many happy memories of the Wedding Cake House and the people who lived there,” Ames says. “They were thoughtful and generous neighbors. In some way, the preservation of the mantle is another way to keeps the history and legend the house alive.” William Lord, a contemporary of Bourne’s in the 1800s, became one of Kennebunk’s most prominent citizens, building the structure that would become the Brick Store Museum. The museum houses more than 70,000 artifacts and offers exhibits and programs devoted to local history, art and culture. Cynthia Walker, its executive director, describes the connection between these two historic sites. “In our role as educators, the Brick Store Museum serves to inspire generations with the history of today to build a better tomorrow,” she says. “The Wedding Cake House is a testament to the creative, hardworking people of Kennebunk’s past and future, and as a landmark, we hope to see it preserved. Like many people, we are saddened by the current state of the house but are determined to assist every historic homeowner with the help they need to preserve such wonderful treasures to be shared by everyone.” Looking to the Future Thomas W. Murphy Jr., author of the well-researched book “The Wedding Cake House: The World of George W. Bourne,” is one of the many individuals who want to see this historic property restored.
Mary Burnett stands on a ladder as a carpenter performs renovation work on the Wedding Cake House in 1983. Courtesy photo 6
“I’m deeply concerned about the Wedding Cake House, a local landmark and a source of great pride for all — locals and visitors alike,” he says. “It is rapidly falling back to the condition it was during the late 1970s when the last family owner could no longer afford to keep up with its constant maintenance and repair. Then
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Murphy, whose book’s numerous photo graphs include detailed comparisons of the Cathedral of Milan and the Wedding Cake House, explains how Burnett researched 1930s-era Works Progress Administration architectural drawings in Washington, D.C., hired the best restoration craftsmen and, then, lovingly restored the exterior, fence and interior of the house, bringing back the house that George Bourne had meticulously crafted more than 120 years earlier.
BY LAURA SNYDER SMITH
“Kennebunk and the George Bourne House need another Mary Burnett to ride to the rescue again before it’s too late,” Murphy says, adding, “Also, before it’s too late, folks in Kennebunk who truly care about this architectural treasure need to seriously and promptly rethink residential as the only permitted zoned use for this confectionary gem. The next time you drive past the house, pull over, get out and seriously look at the visible rot, the rapid disintegration of the ‘wedding cake’ trim and speak up!” Kennebunk Town Manager Michael Pardue says, “As one of our iconic masterpieces, we are eager to see the building restored to its former glory. In many ways, the Wedding Cake House is symbolic of the storied history of Kennebunk and people who contributed to make it a great place to live, work and visit.”
•
INCOME! Extra income above and beyond fixed income … for “lunch money,” vacations, little extras, etc.
thing, because not only do retired folks have so much to offer, we sure need ‘em to round out our workforce here in the Kennebunks.
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Work outside the home keeps retirees active in their community.
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Part-time/seasonal work offers flexible schedules that works around their other commitments.
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Yes, it’s OK (and commonly accepted) to work after “retirement.”
Last year was a tough one for businesses, many of which had to reduce hours or limit days because of a staffing shortage. They faced the perfect storm of a low unemployment rate, a robust economy and a reduced number of H-2B visas, meaning fewer seasonal employees came to work in local hotels and restaurants.
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Working gives people a “purpose” … a reason to get up and get out of the house regularly.
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Working outside the home allows retirees to share their love of the Kennebunks with out-of-towners, making them appreciate even more this wonderful place we call home.
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Working with others of all ages offers new connections with others they might not normally know.
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Learn something new! Most employers provide all the relevant training retirees will need to know to perform the job.
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R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Older workers gain the respect of friends and family for getting out there, perhaps beyond their own “comfort zone.”
At this time, the final outcome of the property poses more questions than answers.
This seasonal town NEEDS quality help to continue its appeal to visitors, and retirees have so much experience and knowledge to offer them.
“Since the property is a private residence, there is a limited role the town can offer,” Pardue confirms, adding, “We feel encouraged that the restoration of the building will be resolved in the near future.”
These are just a few of the reasons why retirees re-enter the workforce. And that’s a very good
Perhaps it will not be long before the Wedding Cake House once again becomes a crown jewel of Kennebunk, preserved for the future as a world-renowned architectural masterpiece of the past.
Steve Hrehovcik is a freelance writer and artist in Kennebunk. He can be contacted at 207-590-7751 or visit his website at www.kennebunkartstudio.com.
From 11am to 1pm on Tuesday, April 10, The Center in Lower Village will host a job fair specifically for older adults, in a comfortable, low-key atmosphere. Complete with lunch from local restaurants, the afternoon will feature representatives from local hotels, such as The Breakwater Inn & Spa, Colony, Nonantum Resort and Kennebunkport Resort Collection. The fair is free and open to the public. Local businesses are looking for front-desk, reservation and sales agents, gift shop attendants, night auditors, maintenance and landscaping workers, housekeepers, cruise and bus greeters, concierge staff, hosts, bartenders, breakfast attendants, pet sitters, childcare, pool and marina attendants and more. Sounds like something you can do? Share your time and talents this season. Get out of the house and stay active, and earn some extra fun money, Get out there and share your
Laura Snyder Smith is the marketing and events manager at the Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce. She may be reached at events@gokennebunks.com.
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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS
This year looks to remain the same, so a new collaborative committee, the Older Employees Staffing Alliance, is working to recruit older employees, touting the benefits of working after retirement.
love of our community, and learn something new. Work it, ladies and gentlemen!
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Expert Contributor
dropping bright, and at KBC, that’s how we like it — if the beer isn’t clear, then we know it’s not quite ready for service.
ENJOY AN INSIDE TASTE OF KBC’S
Cask-Conditioned English-Style Ales
Service to the bar upstairs at Federal Jack’s happens by inserting a tap into the side of the cask, which is connected to a hand pump upstairs on the bar. The ale is pulled from the cask through the pump, called a beer engine, which is fitted with a sparkler at the end of the spout. This causes the ale to spray into the glass, forcing carbon dioxide to break out of solution and creating a fluffy head of foam at the top of the pint. No extra gas is added to the ale, so the resulting beer has a much smoother, more flavorful texture than a filtered and force=carbonated draft beer.
BY MIKE HALEY
The Kennebunkport Brewing Company (KBC) began brewing English-style ales in the spring of 1992 on the banks of the Kennebunk River. More than 25 years later, we continue to craft our ales using time-honored techniques and traditional brewing equipment while striving to offer new and creative products to our customers at Federal Jack’s Brewpub. Finding a balance between heritage and innovation can be challenging, but our brewers have done just that by revitalizing our cask-conditioned ale program. We should begin with a brief explanation of beer styles and the brewing process, then we can dig a little deeper into the attributes of cask conditioning. First, of the hundreds of beer styles in the world today, there are f two main categories: ale or lager. The main difference between ale and lager stems from how these beers are fermented. Ale fermentation is carried out by yeast strains that ferment at warmer temperatures over a shorter period of time, with the yeast “flocking” on top of the beer. Typical ale styles include Pale, India Pale Ale, Porter, ESB, Brown, Bitter and Stout — all of which have a general roundness, fruitiness and fuller character. Lagers will ferment using yeast strains that work best at cooler temperatures over longer periods of time, with the yeast “flocking” near the bottom of the fermenting vessel. Additional aging is often required for cleaner, crisper flavors. Typical lager styles include Pilsner, Bock, Marzen, Vienna and Helles.
carbon dioxide and this happens in a closed container, this gas has no place to go but to be dissolved into the beer, so it’s naturally “conditioned” or carbonated. Upon filling the casks, we also add two fining aids to help clarify the ale once it has finished its secondary ferment. When we drop the temperature of the ale, these finings will bond with the yeast cells and complex proteins and pull the large particles to the bottom of the cask. They will settle just below the point from which we’ll pull the ale for service. This process is called
Mike Haley is head brewer at Kennebunkport Brewing Company.
2 0 7. 2 5 1 . 0 5 5 8 W W W . T E R R A P I N LA N D S C A P E S . C O M
If we take a few steps back in our brewing process, we can see how our cask-conditioned ales are created. After the ale has finished it’s “primary” fermentation, we’ll then transfer a portion of the batch from the fermenter into a stainless steel cask.
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To add some excitement to this very traditional approach to service, we are able to get creative by dosing the casks at filling with varied herbs,
The brewing process for cask-conditioned ales begins as it would for most beers. We’ll mix heated brewing water with malted grains (barley, wheat, rye, oats, etc.), allowing the starches in the malt to be converted to fermentable sugar. We’ll then pump the liquid we’ve created into our copper kettle for boiling. During the boil, hops are added for bitterness and aroma. The liquid is then cooled on its way to the fermenting vessel, where we’ll add the yeast. As the yeast ferments the sugars from the malt, it produces alcohol and carbon dioxide in its place. Once the yeast has consumed all but a small amount of the sugars, we’ll begin to cool, clarify and carbonate the ale.
Traditional British casks come in several sizes, each with unique names to distinguish one from the next. The smallest, at 5.4 gallons, is called a Pinkin; next is the Firkin at 10.8 gallons; and the largest, at 21.6 gallons, is the Kilderkin. At KBC, pins and firkins are in use. The ale that fills the cask still has enough active yeast cells and fermentable sugar to begin a “secondary” fermentation cycle. Given that one of the by-products of fermentation is
spices, fruits, dry-hops, “spirited” wood additions, etc. This spring, we are hoping to tap a new cask every “Firkin Friday” at Federal Jack’s.
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APRIL 2018
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Personal Finances 101
Culinary Corner
Just in Time for Spring:
M a ki ng a Meier Bowl BY DEBBIE MEIER
Imagine Graduating from High
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With spring right around the corner, everyone is a little bit more health-conscious, so this month we're going to do a vibrant, healthy Meier Bowl. This recipe is inspired by Korean dishes and the ramen fad that has hit the New England area recently. If you're like me and like to bend the rules a little bit, then you're going to love this recipe where anything goes!
Make a nest of your noodles or rice in each bowl. Cover with a cup of the broth. I start in a circle, adding the ingredients one at a time. Then top it off with a fried egg, sesame seeds, salt and pepper and a squeeze of the lemon, which will not just add another punch of flavor but will make the colors in the bowl explode!
Whether you use beef, chicken, seafood or just the vegetables, it all starts with an easy-peasy base. Not only is this recipe good for you and delicious, but it's also a work of art. So, let's get creative!
I call it the Meier Bowl, but you can call it your own bowl. Enjoy!
BY LUKE LABBE
INGREDIENTS:
A few weeks ago, I was in line at our PeoplesChoice Credit Union branch in Saco behind a mother and her teenage daughter. They wanted to open a checking account so the 16-year-old could get a debit card to order books for college classes. I spoke with them about options and emphasized that 16 may be the perfect age to consider building credit with PeoplesChoice VISA and a credit-builder loan.
3 cups of chicken broth
¼ cup sesame oil
3 cups of lily bean thread noodles, ramen noodles, fresh noodles or rice
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
The daughter really liked that idea, and I continued to share the story of our staff member Michelle Lavigne, who helped her teenage boys get credit. By the age of 18, each had a perfect credit score, which allowed for low-cost auto insurance without a cosigner — a true win/win.
1½ cups of shredded carrots
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2 cups of spinach 2 cups of bok choy 1 cucumber, sliced 3 large portabella mushrooms
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Michelle and her sons Yes, insurance companies charge different rates based on credit like so many other businesses. Being able to work with a teenager while under the same roof is great financial planning while getting them ready for adulthood.
I am working with my brother to do the same thing with his triplets. Open a credit card with a $500 to $1,000 limit, and they do not even have to use it to build credit. Parents will need to co-sign and should then plan to make the $25 monthly minimum payment automatically from an account so the card will always report on-time payments. In addition, our new Smart Start Credit Program has the option of a $500 to $1,000 credit-builder loan that is a perfectly safe and controllable way to develop installment credit and revolving credit needed to acquire those higher credit score tiers. I encourage all Southern Maine families to have this conversation. Quite frankly, not many parents have this discussion with their children in the teenage years. But with a little planning, they can start their young students out with perfect credit. Teens love the independence and the status of having credit, and parents can enjoy lower rates and fees from the various utilities that come along with the transition to maturity.
Good credit is a key part of adulthood. Partnering with
a solid credit union like PeoplesChoice can pave a safe road to establish a great credit profile. To learn more about Smart Start, our new initiative for a youth credit program, visit www.peopleschoicecreditunion.org/smartstart.
Luke Labbe is the president of People’s Choice Credit Union in Saco, Maine. 10
3 large eggs
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7/29/2016 11:38:51 AM
1 cup of snow peas ¼ cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil ¼ cup kimchi 3 teaspoons fresh ground chili paste 1 lemon ¼ cup of chives, chopped 2 garlic cloves, diced 1½ cups of choice meat or seafood Salt and pepper to season
*This recipe is for three, but for larger servings, all you have to do is increase the broth and noodles by one cup per person.
METHOD: If you are using the bean noodles, presoak them in a bowl of cool water while you're putting together the rest of the recipe. If you're using regular ramen noodles or rice, cook as directed. Set aside. In a saucepan, simmer your broth while adding your kimchi and chili paste. If you don't like spicy, then don't add these two items. They're really not hot, but they add a punch of flavor to your broth. Add salt and pepper to the broth as it is simmering. I add a little extra broth just because while simmering, the broth actually reduces a little. Add half of your chives to the broth as well. In another pan, add some of your olive oil to sauté your snow peas, mushrooms, spinach and bok choy. Add your chopped garlic and the remainder of your chives. Drizzle your sesame seed oil over mixture as it is sautéing. Remember to salt and pepper during each stage to ensure proper seasoning. In a different pan, prepare your meat or seafood as you like. While they are sautéing, place your uncooked carrots and cucumbers in a bowl and cover with rice vinegar. Stir them around so they fully get coated. Add salt and pepper to season. Set aside.
DEB’S TIPS: 1.
Lemons and limes are not just used for their citrus flavor or zest; they also help preserve the brightness of colored vegetables.
2.
When using avocados, always squeeze lime over them to prevent them from turning brown.
Debbie Meier grew up in Canada and has always had a passion for culinary arts, cooking and sharing the delicious foods she prepares with others. She is well known in the Kennebunks for her delectable meals. Her focus is on simple and easy tips that save time and money in the kitchen. Look for her monthly feature “Deb’s Culinary Tip of the Month” right here in Neighbors of the Kennebunks magazine.
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Fry the eggs. Do not flip your egg; you will want your yolk to be runny to mix in with the broth to add a thickness and another punch of flavor. Now it's time to start building, and everyone in the family can get involved and build their own if they choose. I use large shallow bowls to serve this in as they seem to work the best at holding and showcasing all the ingredients in this vibrant dish.
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The Landing School
The Landing School Gives Students Boat-Building Skills and Great Confidence to Set Sail on Life’s Journey BY MATT ROBINSON
The Kennebunk area is known for its sailing history. Tourists and locals come each season to push off from the Nonantum Resort or book passage with one of the area’s many pleasure boats or fishing fleets. While many enjoy coming to town for a day, a weekend or a summer, others have found a reason to stay — some since 1978, when The Landing School in Arundel was founded. “The Landing School is an innovative training ground for the future of the marine industry,” says Jamie Houtz, director of facilities and industry relations, adding the school provides“men and women pursuing their passion for boats with the education and inspiration to turn their passion into a career.” As so many people sail from the Kennebunk area — or at least try to — it became evident that better boats were needed. And necessity being what it is, the school was founded to both teach and continue the proud tradition of wooden boat building. “The ship- and boatbuilding history on the Kennebunk River is rich with examples of robust but elegant commercial vessels that plowed the oceans, trading in products that lined many pockets, built many fine homes and spread the word worldwide that Maine-built boats are well worth the cost,” Houtz reflects, noting how many area residents and businesses offer housing, discounts and other benefits to Landing School students. Started by Kennebunkport neighbors Cricket Clark and John Burgess, the school opened with a class of 12 students and has been growing ever since. Its programs include yacht design, marine systems, composites and a full associate’s degree track, which was launched during the 2013-14 academic year.
In Cuba, Houtz notes, “The Landing School also offers second-year students the opportunity to participate in a hands-on-experience,” adding what an exciting time it is to be able to be there studying and living. As the school has given to the community, so has the community given back. “The Kennebunk area community has been integral in supporting the various marine trades of the area for over 200 years,” Houtz maintains. In addition to being the oldest operating school of its type in the country, The Landing School is also the first to be accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and the only school in the world offering accredited programs
in yacht design, wooden boatbuilding, composite boatbuilding and marine systems under one roof.
the years. It is our hope that we have been and will continue to be as good a neighbor and friend to the community as they have been to us.”
Since expanding its campus, the school has also begun offering the only residential yacht-design degree program in the country.
Matthew Robinson is a freelance writer who lives in Needham, Massachusetts
As the school’s overview states, “Our graduates go on to enjoy rich careers in the marine industry as well as in engineering, shipping, wind energy, medical device design and more. No school offers more marine industry technology diversity under one roof than The Landing School.” “Our goal is to provide transformational opportunities for every student that enters our programs,” Houtz explains. The school strives to help its students reach their full potential, graduate with confidence in their abilities and accomplish things they may never have thought possible. “As the school enters into its 40th year,” Houtz muses, “we can’t help but KS 1804 MortgagePrintAd_NeighborsMag Ad-3.65x5.pdf 1 3/5/18 reflect on all of those who have been good neighbors and friends over
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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS
APRIL 2018
13
Earth Day Feature
What Would Rachel
The celebration will include presentations and products that can help everyone adopt eco-friendly practices for their property. A new addition this year will be the Fix It Café at Mark’s Sunoco, where people can bring beloved antiques and other worn items and learn how to restore and refurbish them through such diverse practices as mending, chair-caning and jewelry and lawnmower repair.
Think of Kennebunk’s Earth Day Celebration?
“We welcome people with specialties in the repair/restoration field to participate,” Roth Kimmich says.
BY MATTHEW ROBINSON
While people from all over the world come to Maine to enjoy its natural wonders, it takes more than postcards to preserve our natural treasures. This is the guiding spirit behind the Planeteers of Southern Maine’s second annual Earth Day Celebration, which will be held on Saturday, April 21, from 10am to 2pm in Kennebunk at the Waterhouse Center and at various Main Street businesses. Driven by a mission to “organize, educate and act on a local level in support of our planet,” the grassroots organization is dedicated to creating a sustainable future for the planet and, more specifically, for Southern Maine.
in order to go to town meetings hoping to have others do something, we’re in the field, in the streets, on the beachfronts, doing something and inviting, at times imploring, casual passersby to join us in being better protectors of our planet.” Throughout the year, the Planeteers organize events intended to draw attention and preserve the Kennebunks’ amazing shoreline and other natural resources. Among their most regular activities are marine-debris monitoring, cleanup excursions and beach erosion and accretion monitoring.
The Earth Day event is particularly inspired by the question, “What would Rachel say?” as a tribute to the iconic naturalist and writer Rachel Carson, one of the original pioneers who influenced public policy to protect the environment in the 1950s and 1960s, Roth Kimmich explains.
Speaking of participation, while the group has garnered support from granting organizations like the Natural Resources Council of Maine and New England Grass Roots Environmental Foundation, they mostly rely on volunteer support from local businesses. “It is a day to feel truly connected to each other,” Roth Kimmich observes, “in this place at this time on this planet.” To learn more about the Planeteers of Southern Maine’s web site and Facebook page.
“Our celebration of Earth Day encourages people from all walks of life to join together and share their awe of our planet’s rich offerings,” Roth Kimmich suggests, “while sharing too concerns related to particular perils.”
S t e v e Br y a n t & S o n Tr e e a n d Br u s h
“For me,”says Planeteer Andrea Roth Kimmich, “the most exciting thing about our work is that rather than saving our energy and voices
Matthew Robinson is a freelance writer who lives in Needham, Massachusetts.
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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS
APRIL 2018
15
KCT Feature Their autumn nuptials arrived, and the grounds they worked so hard on provided a beautiful backdrop for their special day. The new Mr. and Mrs. continued to fall in love with Kennebunkport. They frequently visited town for weekend getaways, Prelude, beach days and surfing.
How KCT Inspired One Couple To Plant Roots in the Kennebunks Not many couples can say that their wedding venue changed their path in life, but that is exactly what happened to Tom and Jenn Fries. Tom and Jenn both work for Liberty Mutual and had heard about the KCT from their company’s “Serve With Liberty” volunteer day. The trust is one of many nonprofits that host Liberty Mutual employees for a work day each spring. The annual outing started with a handful of folks helping out on Goat Island. Word caught on that volunteering with the trust was a pretty fun gig, and KCT now hosts 60 Liberty volunteers each May. They work on trails, prep the boats for the season, get winter debris off of the islands, paint picnic tables, do yard work and everything else that is on our “honey-do” list.
“I’ve had the good pleasure of knowing them for around 10 years,” Grady reports. “First through work and now through the KCT and living in town. They haven’t changed a bit since we first met. They are two of the most kind and genuine people I’ve met. I’m so glad they chose to make Kennebunkport their home and, more so, that they volunteer their time for the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.”
“Anytime we visited, we dreamed of the idea of someday buying a home and living close to town and the beach,” Tom says.
BY LISA LINEHAN
From wedding bells to tractors to island stewards: The story of one couple’s journey in making Kennebunkport their home
event that first brought Tom and Jenn to the trust.
Tom recalls their first visit to the trust, “We decided we wanted to get married in Kennebunkport and heard that Liberty had Serve With Liberty days at KCT. We decided to take a drive and once we arrived at the trust and saw the interior of the headquarters and the beautiful property we immediately decided we found our venue.” The couple booked a fall wedding at the trust’s headquarters and joined the other Liberty volunteers at KCT that spring. At the time, major renovations were being made on the grounds around the headquarters building. Tom and Jenn eagerly went to work on the grounds when they showed up for their volunteer day. They raked. They spread loam. They seeded. They even used the tractor to prepare the lawn where they would host their wedding in a few short months. The entire time they were working, you could see the excited anticipation on their faces.
The couple was living in the Portsmouth area and decided to focus on the Kennebunks when it was time to purchase their first home together. With a minimalist mindset, they purposely sought out and bought a small house in Kennebunkport. Instead of having a lot of possessions, they wanted to be outdoors and travel the world. Their fresh and inviting perspective brought Tom and Jenn back to the trust once they moved to town. While they were looking to become regular volunteers, KCT was looking for someone to lead the Island Steward Program. The Fries were big fans of the islands and jumped at the chance to lead the crew of people who care for them in the summer months. “We really wanted to give back to the community we love so much and appreciate all that KCT does for the trails and islands,” Jenn reflects. “After a few Serve with Liberty island trips, coupled with our love for the ocean, we were sold on the islands and all that they offer the community.” Russ Grady, who is a member of the trust’s board of directors and also serves as KCT’s volunteer coordinator, organizes the Liberty Mutual
Last summer was their first season as the head island stewards. They are already busy planning for the upcoming season and have a lot on their agenda including: •
Steward season kickoff and potluck in late April
•
Partnership with Maine Island Trails Association for Leave No Trace training
•
Launching a pilot and skipper training program
•
Regular cleanups and patrols in the harbor
•
Fun island events through the summer
If you love the islands and want to meet a great couple, we welcome you to join the island steward crew! Email Tom and Jenn at islands@kctoffice. org or join our volunteer page, KCT Volunteers, on Facebook. Lisa Linehan is the associate director of the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.
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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS
APRIL 2018
17
Kitchen & Bath Design Service & Sales
April 2018
TUES., APRIL 24
CHAMBER 101
SPECIAL EVENTS
SAT., MARCH 24
KENNEBUNK EASTER EGG HUNT
@ Town Hall Auditorium and Waterhouse Center Hop on over for this fun-filled annual event. The event is free and no registration is required; however, parental supervision is mandatory. The Kennebunk Recreation Department Easter Egg Hunts start promptly at 10am, so plan to arrive by 9:45am. The Town Hall event is for ages 2-4, and Waterhouse Center is for ages 5-8. Time: 10am-noon Cost: Free with parental supervision https://kennebunkme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=24561
THURSDAYS, MARCH 29 - APRIL 26
FURRY TALES STORY AND ADVENTURE HOUR
@ Animal Welfare Society Join the AWS on Thursdays when school is in session in the Humane Education Room, where preschoolers are invited to discover the exciting world of animals with stories, playtime, crafts, songs, movement and animal time. Time: 10-11am Cost: Free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
SAT., MARCH 31
ANNUAL COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT
@Arundel M.L. Daly School Join us for this annual tradition by gathering in the school’s bus loop prior to 10am. The hunt begins in the playground at 10am and is free for all ages. Kids, bring your own Easter basket for egg-collecting. Parents, bring your cameras for photos of the kids with the Easter Bunny! Time: 10am Cost: Free http://www.arundelrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29893
SAT., MARCH 31
WELLS ANNUAL EGG HUNT
@Walter Marsh Recreation Park Pavilion Bring an Easter basket or bag to collect your goodies and be on the lookout for a special guest appearance from the Easter Bunny! This event is for children
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in preschool through grade 2. There will be some eggs with notes inside to claim bigger prizes at the prize table! Come, have fun and be fair to all involved! Parents, bring your cameras for photos with the Easter Bunny. Time: 11am Cost: Free https://secure.rec1.com/ME/town-of-wells-me/catalog/index
SAT., MARCH 31
MERRILL AUDITORIUM PRESENTS
@Quest Parking See “Kinky Boots” in Portland with Kennebunk Recreation. The bus will leave and return to the Quest Fitness parking lot. Transportation and show admission included. Registration is required. Time: 11am-5pm Cost: $54 https://kennebunkme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29731
FRI., APRIL 13, SUN., APRIL 15
28TH ANNUAL PATRIOTS DAY WEEKEND CELEBRATION
Visit Ogunquit for this popular annual event, featuring treasure hunts, reenactments, hay rides, a beach bazaar, patriotic pooch pageant and much. Time: Varies Cost: Most events are free; some have a nominal fee https://chamber.ogunquit.org/events/details/patriots-day-celebration-3882
@Chamber of Commerce, Kennebunk Come learn all the benefits of membership and ways to leverage opportunities for your specific business. We'll discuss membership details such as making your webpage shine; volunteer and participatory options in professional, community and networking events; newsletters and chamber communications; press opportunities; social media opportunities; and our Connecting Community philosophy and mission here at the Chamber . Time: Noon Cost: Free with RSVP to 967-0857 http://gokennebunks.com/pages/events/business-seminars
WEDS., APRIL 25
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
@Atria Kennebunk Join the chamber at the March Business After Hours event for networking, light refreshments and door prizes! Time: 5-7pm Cost: $5 for chamber members and $10 for nonmembers http://gokennebunks.com/pages/events/business-after-hours
SAT., APRIL 28
SPRING BAKED BEAN SUPPER
@ Arundel M.L. Day School Gym Enjoy two kinds of beans, mac-and-cheese, hot dogs, coleslaw, rolls, drinks, homemade desserts and check out the historical displays and raffles. Time: 4:30-6pm Cost: $7, free for children under age 5 http://chamber.gokennebunks.com/events/details/spring-baked-bean-supper-6996
1540 Main St., Sanford 324 - 6239
www.pandesupply.com
MON., APRIL 16, TO FRI., APRIL 20
APRIL VACATION CAMP
@Animal Welfare Society, Kennebunk Your child will love spending school vacation week with the animals! Don’t let the learning end when school is out for the week. Vacation camp is so fun, students won’t even realize they’re becoming more knowledgeable about animals and animal care. Campers engage in hands-on learning and are encouraged to ask questions and explore their curiosity. And of course, campers spend time with pets of all kinds! For more information, contact the AWS Humane Education Team at (207) 985-3244 ext. 109. Cost: $225 http://animalwelfaresociety.org/news_and_events/april-vacation-camp-3/
NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS
APRIL 2018
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