Lake Living volume 20, no. 2

FREE summer 2017 • vol. 20, no. 2

Custom Fit plus:

summer living

food for thought

in your spare time

cooking for mick jagger

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editor’s note

summer 2017 • vol. 20, no. 2

Looking back through twenty years of Lake Living covers to choose the top ten for this anniversary issue got me thinking about what two decades represents.

I totally remember the excitement of turning twenty years old. It was the leap from teenager to adult that gave my life legitimacy. At the time, it wasn’t a matter of being old enough to vote or order a beer (we had that at eighteen), it was more about the possibilities that lie ahead-—beginning with the prospect of the very first summer on my own. The world was my oyster and I was poised to break it open and consume the contents.

That particular summer comes to mind often and mostly when my mind is undistracted and at ease. All these years later, I recognize there was a healthy measure of innocence that fed my enthusiasm, and I can’t help but wonder if every twenty-year-old feels the same coltish exuberance for life? All these years later I wonder, can I? It’s all become so serious of late that it sometimes feels as though we’ve forgotten how to play. If ever there was a season to remember how, summer is it.

So, as I listen to the sound of a soft, spring rain falling all around, I make myself a solemn promise to not let this summer pass without plenty of beach days, bike rides, bonfires and books. I may not be twenty anymore, but I can act it. Here’s to all of us channeling our twenty-year-old selves and celebrating the return of the sun and summer. Happy birthday to all of us!

Laurie LaMountain Editor & Publisher Laurie LaMountain Staff Writers Leigh Macmillen Hayes, Perri Black Photographers Ethan McNerney, Leigh Macmillen Hayes, Seth Merriam, Lakes Environmental Assn., Michelle Wheeler Graphic Designer Dianne Lewis Proofreader/Copy Editor Leigh Macmillen Hayes Lake Living is published quarterly by Almanac Graphics, Inc., 625 Rocky Knoll Rd, Denmark, ME 04022 207-452-8005. www.lakelivingmaine.com e-mail: lakeliving@fairpoint.net ©2017. All rights reserved. Contents of this magazine may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent from the publisher. Annual subscriptions are available by sending check or money order for $20 to the above address.

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8 custom fit

20 life is better and safer

12 summer living

22 in your spare time

by leigh macmillen hayes

14 plant based wellness

by laurie lamountain

16 food for thought

by leigh macmillen hayes

18 top 10 in 20

at the lakes by perri black

28 cooking for mick jagger

by laurie lamountain

30 summer bookshelf

reviews from bridgton books

cover photo by ethan mcnerney with clothing and gear graciously provided by sportshaus of bridgton

The Place to Shop for the Summer Ahead!

Fabulous and fun women’s clothing and accessories—for a walk on the beach, a day at work, or a special evening out. You’ll also find tasteful housewares and decor—books, wine—and gifts for all occasions, a wedding, or that small “thank you.”

CRAFTWORKS

main street, bridgton • open seven days • 207.647.5436

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custom fit by leigh macmillen hayes

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first met Seth Merriam when he walked through the door of my classroom at Lake Region Middle School in the early ‘90s. He was a class clown—an extremely creative class clown.

I’m happy to report that he hasn’t lost that playfulness. It’s part of his charm, which he has channeled into his work as a graphic designer for his family’s business in Naples, Great Northern Docks.

A year and a half ago I met Seth again as he joined the staff from Lakes Environmental Association for the maiden voyage of a utility boat he’d designed that would ease the task of pulling a large scientific buoy out of Highland Lake in Bridgton. He’d brought along a drone to document the event, while LEA researcher Amanda Pratt and I took numerous photos from another boat.

I remember the laughs as Seth joked with the LEA staff, but also his command to us— “Don’t look at the drone. Look natural.”

Of course, we were all in awe of this little remote-controlled device flying above us.

The real story though was the collaboration. And it’s a connection of networks that had been occurring on many levels over the

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years that led to that maiden voyage of the utility boat.

Since 1970, the Lakes Environmental Association has conducted traditional biweekly water quality tests on our area lakes, but they upped the ante by purchasing two GLEON buoys in the past few years.

GLEON is an acronym for Global Lake Ecological Observatory Network, consisting of lake and technology scientists from all over the world who are trying to understand global change and human impacts on lake environments.

Sensors attached on and below this buoy capture conditions every fifteen minutes, while a solar-powered computer inside it records measurements of algae levels, water temperature, dissolved oxygen and clarity.

These are transmitted to LEA via a cell signal.

From April through November, the buoy is deployed in the deepest spot of Highland and Long Lakes to collect these measurements.

This allows Assistant Director Colin Holme, Researcher Amanda Pratt, and LEA’s Maine Lake Science Center Research Director, Dr. Ben Peierls, the ability to watch the effects of weather events, such as rain storms and wind, that may stir up nutrients in the depths of the lake and cause algal blooms or add more oxygen to the water column.

“With the data we are getting from the buoy, we can observe real time water quality information such as spikes in algae concentrations coupled with minor mixing events and this will help us make better management and policy decisions about the lake and watershed,” says Colin.

Additionally, the staff can make a connection to the greater world as they compare what is going on in our lakes region with what’s happening in other lakes around the globe.

All of this would not be possible without funding from an anonymous foundation and lakefront residents.

Not only is collaboration important for funding and sharing of knowledge, but also for deploying, maintaining and hauling out the heavy and awkward buoy. That’s where Seth and Great Northern Docks (GND) come into play.

When LEA purchased the first 150-pound GLEON buoy, the question immediately arose—how would it be launched? Though the weight isn’t so overwhelming, the structure is awkward and could prove difficult to maneuver from the organization’s twelve-

When LEA purchased the first 150-pound GLEON buoy, the question immediately arose—how would it be launched? Though the weight isn’t so overwhelming, the structure is awkward and could prove difficult to maneuver from the organization’s twelve-foot aluminum boat, especially with all the sensors attached below the buoy. foot aluminum boat, especially with all the sensors attached below the buoy.

GND had helped with previous projects, so it was only natural to ask for their advice and aid once again. That is where Seth came onto the scene. He envisioned something similar to a kayak launch that GND had invented and began looking around the company’s grounds for suitable materials.

Using a prototype of the kayak launcher that consisted of cedar planks atop styrofoam, he created a boat that he describes as looking a bit like a swingset, “but much more rickety.” It had to be assembled over water with an A-frame structure to support the winch that would lower or raise the buoy.

Two years ago, Seth and Colin gave the cedar rig a trial run—and Seth now grins broadly as he recalls how they stood on opposite sides of the two planks, which had space between for the buoy, and quickly realized they’d have to move simultaneously in order to keep the structure below their feet from creaking and cracking.

That first rig was OK and helped LEA perform the task, but really, its small platforms didn’t allow much work space and any wave action added to the difficulty of lowering

the GLEON buoy in the middle of the lake.

And so, feeling like he was in a bind when it came time to haul the buoy out that fall, Colin asked Seth to help again.

Because it was fall, Seth felt he could devote some time to the creation of a sturdier craft and bypass regular production procedures at GND. In a short time frame, he developed a 3-D design, while Colin purchased a couple of pontoons with some holes from Moose Landing Marina.

A GND employee, Tom L., was interested in learning how to weld and began by fixing the holes. His contribution became vital to the project, though there was some tweaking involved in the overall process as Seth searched the GND yard for items that would work. In the name of recycling and reusing, he found aluminum from blemished dock sections and knew they would be perfect for the task.

The GND team custom fit and welded a Dura-LITE aluminum dock across the two pontoons, creating a back platform to hold passengers and equipment, including a hand-cranked crane. Catwalks, carpeted

by Colin and Amanda, were installed over the front portion of the pontoons, leaving an opening between them.

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There was concern that by cutting off the front, the strength of the boat would be lost, but that’s where GND’s many years of design, creation and installation of dock systems came into play. With their in-house ingenuity, they were able to stabilize the boat on all sides, making it easy and safe to work on the buoy from the catwalks, as well as lower and raise it.

Colin brought a motor to GND so they could mount it. And GND added a speed rail that could easily be popped off with a wrench when the time came to load the buoy.

A swim ladder was attached to the inner part of the horseshoe-shaped boat to allow for easier access during routine maintenance.

The final product is a versatile utility

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boat that LEA will continue to use for the GLEON buoy, and for other expanded water quality tests.

Both Colin and Seth admit that given the price of the buoy, they felt a heavy sense of responsibility and kept their fingers crossed during the maiden voyage in hopes that everything would work as planned. It did and continues to do so.

The utility boat is not a real pontoon boat. “We make docks,” says Seth. “We don’t make things that fly across the water.”

That’s fine for LEA, as their need is not for speed, but rather to safely transport valuable equipment and staff.

Seth adds that Great Northern Docks was happy to take scrap aluminum and

“put it into something that’s beneficial to the lakes and community because the lakes and community are important to us.” In doing so, however, he cautions that it closes down production, so projects like this are made as exceptions, rather than the norm.

This donation by GND benefits all of us as it allows the LEA staff to assess collected data, which is made available at mainelakes. org so we can learn more about limnology and better understand the factors that contribute to water quality issues.

In the end, the creation of the utility boat provides an outstanding example of ways in which local for-profit and non-profit businesses can craft a win-win collaboration. R

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summer living performing arts

Deertrees Theatre Take part in celebrating music, drama and art at this enchanting Adirondack-style, 300-seat theater nestled in the pines of Harrison. FMI: www.deertreestheatre.org, 207.583.6747.

Denmark Arts Center Located on Main Street in the hamlet of Denmark, the DAC offers an impressive array of music, dance, art and workshops, including DAMJAM, the signature musical event. FMI: denmarkarts.org, 207.452.2412.

Lakes Region Community Theatre Providing opportunities for education, participation and appreciation in the performing arts since 1996, LRCT will present The Wizard of Oz at Lake Region High School on August 4, 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13.

FMI: www.lrctme.org.

Ossipee Valley Music Festival From roots and Americana, bluegrass, gypsy jazz, blues, southern country and rock ’n roll, the festival features an omnivorous blend of genredefying music in South Hiram on July 27-30. FMI: ossipeevalley. com, 207.625.8656 Oxford Hills Music and Performing Arts Association Staging productions featuring local talent since 1990, OHMPAA will present Barefoot in the Park June 15-25 at Norway Grange.

FMI: ohmpaa.com.

Schoolhouse Arts Center Appealing to audiences of all ages, a variety of shows will be performed in the revamped theater during the summer months at SAC in Standish.

FMI: schoolhousearts.org, 207.642.3743.

Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival Join SLLMF for Quintets and More as they celebrate their 45th season of chamber music.

Each 7:30pm Tuesday concert performed at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison will feature one extraordinary quintet, and more from July 11-August 8.

FMI: sllmf.org.

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Stone Mountain Arts Center Nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains, the Stone Mountain Arts Center is a beautiful timber-frame music hall that hosts national acts.

FMI: stonemountainartscenter. com, 207.935.7292.

the outdoors

Greater Lovell Land Trust Join the GLLT for a series of guided walks and hikes. Mosses, lichens, mushrooms, bees and wildflowers are some of the themes supported by complimentary GLLT-sponsored Natural History Evening Programs at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library in Lovell. FMI: gllt.org, 207.925.1056.

Lakes Environmental Association LEA offers an extensive summer program that includes guided walks and family outings at Holt Pond, Highland Lake Preserve, the Stevens Brook Trail and Pondicherry Park. Back by popular demand this summer will be a Stevens Brook Mill Talk and Walk, cosponsored by the Bridgton Historical Society. FMI: mainelakes.org or 207.647.8580.

Loon Echo Land Trust LELT provides a variety of outdoor experiences including walks, a kite festival, star gazing and a hawk migration watch.

And for the 17th year, they’ll

sponsor the Loon Echo Trek, an opportunity to hike the ridge of Pleasant Mountain and/or bike throughout western Maine. FMI: lelt.org, 207.647.4352.

Mahoosuc Land Trust From the Androscoggin River to mountain summits. the MLT offers plenty of guided paddles and walks for outdoor enthusiasts. To obtain a map of the access points to the Androscoggin River Trail, contact the office. FMI: mahoosuc.org, 207.824.3806 Upper Saco Valley Land Trust Once a month, the USVLT hosts a themed visit to a preserve or easement through the Easement Exploration Series designed to connect community members with the protected lands that surround them.

FMI: usvlt.org, 603.356.9683 Western Foothills Land Trust The WFLT offers hikes, walks and paddles that explore the natural history of the Oxford Hills Region, and especially the land trust’s properties and easements. FMI: wfltmaine.org, 207.739.2124.

museums & history

Bridgton Historical Society and Narramissic While displays at the BHS Museum on Gibbs Avenue depict the town’s history, other summer events include a walking tour, historical home tour, traditional arts, quarry walk and Stevens Brook Mill Talk and Walk. Some events take place at the PeabodyFitch Farm in South Bridgton, known as Narramissic. Be sure to check out the BHS free “Historic Bridgton Apps” for a history of Pondicherry Park and other Bridgton sites. FMI: bridgtonhistory.org, Facebook

Centennial Hall Recently restored Centennial Hall on Main Street, Denmark, features a museum dedicated to the area’s agricultural and industrial past. FMI: by appointment or chance 207.452.2665 Clarence Mulford Room The Fryeburg Public Library is home to a room dedicated to Mulford’s fictional character, Hopalong Cassidy, and includes a collection of books, research notes and other memorabilia.

FMI: fryeburgmaine.org/ town-departments/library, 207.935.2731 Dr. Moses Mason House The Bethel Historical Society offers tours of one of the finest Federal style residences in the area during July and August on Thursday-Saturday from 1-4pm. FMI: bethelhistorical.org, 207.824.2908 Fryeburg Historical Society and Research Center The former Ethel “Red” Smith House, an 1832 cape at 83 Portland Street in Fryeburg, houses both the FHS museum artifacts and paintings, plus the genealogical research library.

FMI: fryeburghistorical.org, 207.256.3001 Kimball-Stanford House The first floor of the main house owned by the Lovell Historical Society serves as a museum (with free admission) and the first floor of the ell (which connects the house with the barn) serves as the Research Center. The LHS hosts the 18th Annual Antique Sale & Auction on July 16 and a house tour on August 13. FMI: lovellhistoricalsociety.org, 207.925.3234 Naples Causeway Classic Boat and Car Show Sponsored by the Mountainview Woodies Classics Boat Club, the 24th annual event begins with a boat parade on Long Lake on Friday, August 11 and continues with the show on Saturday, August 12. FMI: mountainviewwoodies.org Raymond-Casco Historical Museum Three buildings comprise the RCHM in Casco.

The main building features many artifacts of yesteryear, while larger items are located in the restored barn and a third building houses an antique automobile collection.

FMI: raymondmaine.org, 207.655.4646

New England Trappers’ Weekend August 17-19, Demos, stories, camping, contests, food, dance, kids’ stuff, music, and an auction, Bethel. FMI: bethelmaine.com Lovell Arts & Artisans Fair August 19, 9am-3pm, 42nd Annual juried fair at New Suncook School, Lovell. FMI: aafair@hobbslibrary.org Bethel Harvestfest and Chowdah Cookoff September 16, arts, crafts, music, farmers’ market, chowder and apple pie cookoff, Bethel. FMI: bethelmaine.com

farmers’ markets

Waterford Waterford Common Routes 35/37 Mondays, 2-5pm Casco 940 Meadow Road (Rt. 121) Casco Village Green Thursdays, 10am-2pm Norway Rufus Porter Museum The 493 Main St. Museum and Gift Shop are The green at Old Squire’s Farm open Thursday-Saturday Market from June 1 to October 7. The Thursdays, 2-6pm Rufus Porter Museum offers Harrison an opportunity to learn more Route 117 about the 19th century artist, Between Depot St. and inventor and founder of Harrison Old Home Days Tolman Rd. Scientific American magazine.

July 6-9, pancake breakfast, Fridays, 1-5pm FMI: rufusportermuseum.org, fireworks, parade, BBQ, Bethel 207.647.2828 lobster feed, midway and live Route 2 at Parkway Scribners Mill The historic 19th entertainment. FMI: Facebook Next to Norway Savings Bank century sawmill and homestead Sebago Days July 14-15, rides, Saturdays, 9am-1pm in Harrison offers educational games, food, vendors, fireworks Bridgton tours and programs. FMI: and raffles. FMI: Facebook Depot Street scribner.pinepointmedia.com Lovell Old Home Day July 15, Green space behind Reny’s road race, parade and vendors. Saturdays, 9am-1pm FMI: Facebook Norway MollyOckett Day July 15, road 493 Main St. Bethel Art Fair July 1, 9am-4pm, race, parade, fireworks, live The green at Old Squire’s Farm 28th Annual fair at the Bethel music, kids’ entertainment, Market Town Common. FMI: bethelart- food and vendors, Bethel. FMI: Saturdays, 9am-2pm fair.com, 800.442.5826 bethelmaine.com Portland Chickadee Quilters July 8-9, Casco Days July 27-29, midway, Deering Oaks Park 10am-4pm, 38th Annual parade, games including BEANO, Saturdays, 7am-1pm Quilt Show at Stevens Brook food, music, and road race. FMI: Steep Falls Elementary School, Bridgton. cascodays.com 2 Main Street FMI: Facebook Sweden Days August 3-6, Saturdays, 9am-2pm Norway Arts Festival July 9, potluck dinners, talent show, 9am-4pm, Annual Sidewalk Art contra dance, church service Show, Main Street, Norway. and history presentation. FMI: FMI: norwayartsfestival.org, LEA Maine Lakes Open Paddle swedenhistoricalsociety.org, 207.841.8758 Battle, July 1, Stand-up Paddle Facebook Board Race, Highland Lake, Waterford World’s Fair Tarry-a-While Resort, Bridgton.

July 14-16, a celebration of FMI: mainelakes.org rural and historical culture includes a Day Full of Fiddling, Four on the Fourth July 4, Road North Waterford. FMI: race starts at Lower Main Street, waterfordworldsfair.org Bridgton.

FMI: fouronthefourth.com Bridgton Art Guild July 15, 9am4pm, 13th Annual Art in the 5K Run by the Lake July 5, Park Celebration at Shorey Park Evening road race starts at on Main Street, Bridgton. FMI: town office, Harrison. FMI: gallery302.com, 207.647.2787 harrisonmaine.org Naples for the Arts August Norway Triathlon July 8, 5, 9am-5pm, Fine arts show Swim, bike, run around Lake along the Naples Causeway.

Pennesseewassee, Norway. FMI: FMI: naplesforthearts.com, norwaytri.com 954.610.1041 Fun Run July 15, Toddler 50-yard Sweden Town Fair August 5, dash and 2-mile family fun 10am-4pm, Variety of activities walk/run, Route 11, Sebago. FMI: and demonstrations related townofsebago.org to Sweden’s history. FMI: swedenhistoricalsociety.org, Facebook

old home days

MollyOckett Day Classic Road Race July 15, 5-mile run over Paradise Hill, 1-mile sprint for adults and 1-mile for kids, Broad Street, Bethel.

FMI: bethelmaine.com Casco Days Country Run July 29, Four-mile road race, Casco Community Center. FMI: cascodays.com Tough Mountain Challenge July 29, Ultimate challenge event, Sunday River Resort, Newry.

FMI: toughmountain.com Charlie Bennett Memorial Hike August 3, meet at the Sweden Town Meeting House to carpool.

FMI: swedenhistoricalsociety. org and Facebook Maine State Triathlon August 6, Swim, bike, run, Songo Pond Road (Route 5), Albany. FMI: http://mainestatetriathlon.com Tour de Lovell August 12, 20mile bike race, New Suncook School, Lovell. FMI: Facebook Great Adventure Challenge Triathlon August 19, kayak, bike, mountain dash, Shawnee Peak Ski Area, Bridgton. FMI: maineadventureracing.com Loon Echo Trek September 16, 4.5 or 6-mile hike and/or 25,50, 80 and 100-mile bike ride, Shawnee Peak Ski Area, Bridgton.

FMI: loonecholandtrust.org

fairs & festivals

donna dolan

races

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Plant Based Wellness by laurie lamountain

I

met with Michelle Wheeler and Drew Robbins to talk about the business they opened in the bright yellow building on the bend of Main Hill in Bridgton on a raw, rainy day in May. The cold that I’d come down with a few days earlier was at its peak, so coming to a place that promoted plant-based wellness only accentuated the fact that I was not well. Perhaps if I’d added smoothies to my daily intake, I could have stayed healthy?

Michelle tells me that she and Drew make smoothies every day and it’s what brought them to the realization that Bridgton was missing a healthy lunch or snack alternative that they could fill. They envisioned a combination smoothie bar and retail shop called Nectar where they could demonstrate how an under-utilized plant can produce hemp milks, hemp seeds and hemp proteins, all of which provide a really great vegan base for smoothie making. The retail shop would feature hemp clothing, hemp body care products, CBD-infused oils and edibles, etc.

CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of eighty-five different cannabinoids, or chemical components, present in the cannabis plant. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is another. Because CBD has none of the psychoactive effects associated with THC, it’s been especially effective in treating children who experience seizures and has shown promising results in studies with autistic children.

It’s also been found to be effective in treating post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety, as well as regulating blood sugar.

Israel is the world leader in cannabis research and Raphael Mechoulam, Ph.D.

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Last year, the Hemp Industries

Association (HIA) estimated the total

retail value of all hemp products sold in the U.S. at $620 million. Sadly, all of the

raw hemp materials were imported from other countries. Hemp is an attractive rotation crop for farmers. As it grows,

hemp breathes in CO2, detoxifies the soil, and prevents soil erosion.

What’s left after harvest breaks

down into the soil, providing valuable nutrients. Hemp requires much less

water to grow — and no pesticides — so it is much more environmentally

friendly than traditional crops.

from leafly, cannabis 101, kentucky hempsters

was the first one to isolate cannabinoids when he identified THC in 1964. He and his colleagues have been exploring the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids ever since. Humans have an endocannabinoid system that helps regulate, among other things, sleep, digestion, motor control and immune function. Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency disrupts these functions, thereby making the body more susceptible to conditions related to their dysfunction, such as rheumatoid arthritis, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia and a host of other maladies. Non-psychoactive CBD puts a stop to this by recharging the amount of endocannabinoids in the body and bringing it back into balance.

While the most significant health benefits from cannabis are derived from use of the whole plant, due to regulations and restrictions in the U.S., very little scientific research has been done here. Ironically, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services holds Patent No 6,630,507 on cannabinoids as antioxidants and neuroprotectants. CBD is currently available as an isolated component that can be consumed in many of the same ways as the whole plant, and the retail shop at Nectar will feature many of the devices dedicated to doing that.

The retail shop was Drew and Michelle’s original focus, but when they opened the doors of Nectar last summer, the smoothie bar was such an instant success that they were obliged to put the retail shop on hold.

Michelle attributes their success to word of mouth recommendations and social media.

“We were so much busier out of the gate than we ever imagined. Everyone that came in here loved it so much that they told five of their friends ‘you have to come here’ and they found us. Even without a website and without a sign” says Michelle.

Now that they have their first summer under their belts, they know what to expect and are ready to roll out both ends of the business. Thanks to partner Paul Sunquist’s investment in Nectar, Drew is able to focus on retail operations and Michelle on the smoothie shop.

Michelle’s lifestyle has included smoothies for a long time and she saw an opportunity with Nectar to take people outside their comfort zones with respect to flavors and ingredients. She wanted them all to have some protein or super food element and she wanted them to all to be very different. She ended up with twelve smoothies and named them after medical cannabis strains. The Maui Wowie is a delectable blend of organic coconut cream, banana, raw macadamia nuts, agave nectar and a few other ingredients. Michelle concocted it for the Four on the Fourth Race because it incorporates four elements for recuperation (sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium) and it has since become a best seller.

Drew describes it as the closest thing to a milkshake without being a milkshake.

Lunch is the busiest time at Nectar.

People are looking for something to get them through their day that isn’t a burger with fries or a sandwich. Every smoothie incorporates different super foods that

posed to juices, the energy they provide is lasting. Programmable Vitamixers provide a near-zero waste factor and locallysourced organic fruits, herbs and vegetables provide freshness. Weekly specials are focused around what’s in season and readily available at the farmers’ market.

Customers have the option of including CBD oil in their smoothies and many of them report that their sleep patterns are better, their back pain has decreased or their stress levels have lowered. Michelle is also happy to tweak ingredients to accommodate allergies and dislikes.

Realizing that kids get intimidated by a smoothie that has spinach and kale in it, Michelle created Nectar Pops as a kid-friendly alternative. They’re also a more affordable option for families. They have the same organic fruits she uses in the smoothies but are smaller and more manageable for little hands.

It’s the little details that make a difference and Michelle is all about them. A ziplock opening on each Nectar Pop ensures it won’t end up all over the car seats. Organic iced coffee is served with frozen coffee cubes to guarantee that it’s good to the last drop. Starting this summer, the Nectar Food Truck will be available at farmers’ markets with a limited smoothie menu.

Drew and Michelle are even thinking about the franchise potential in the Nectar brand.

“As new entrepreneurs and new to this town, it’s been such a great way to meet everybody. Whether it’s people just popping in to say hi or the way the town has shown their support and enthusiasm for our business, it’s been a really positive experience.

People really get what we’re doing. They see the health benefits. They’re not treating it as just a smoothie place to come in when it’s hot. Our regulars come in whether it’s cold, rainy or a blizzard,” says Michelle. R

banana kush

1 1/2 frozen bananas 1 c fresh kale 2 whole pitted dates 1 tablespoon sunflower butter 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 c unsweetened vanilla TEMPT hemp milk

provide protein and natural energy boosters, so they are an excellent meal replacer.

Michelle intentionally designs her smoothies to be 100% vegan and low glycemic so they won’t spike blood sugar. And because they’re made with the whole food, as op-

strawberry cough

1 c frozen strawberries 1/4 c frozen raspberries 1/4 c frozen Maine blueberries 1 chunk raw ginger 1 c homemade maple lemonade (water, fresh squeezed lemons, Maine maple syrup)

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Food for Thought by leigh macmillen hayes

J

ust before closing, a customer walked through the door of Food for Thought on Main Street in Norway. In the shop’s window, she’d previously noticed a copy of Thunder over South Parish, a steamy New England gothic novel written in 1960 by Addison Allen that fictionalized a 1930s double murder on Paris Hill.

While Joanna Reese chatted with the customer, her sister, Vanessa, related the gist of the novel to me. It’s a whodunit based on a true whodunit about a local doctor and his wife who were killed by their chauffeur. Or was it the county sheriff who committed the crime? It seems the town name of Paris was changed to Parish to keep people from recognizing the area, but the actual names of those involved in the biggest crime of its time were only thinly veiled by the author. According to Vanessa, the novel was controversial when published, even though it was almost three decades after the actual crime and family members purchased as many copies as they could find. They held a public burning, thus decreasing the number of books available.

Joanna explained that the copy previously seen in the window had been sold,

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but she thought there might be another at The Maine Bookhouse, so she immediately called the sister bookstore. As expected, her father, Harry, informed her that he did have a copy and would hold it for the customer.

That’s the sort of service one can expect when entering Food for Thought, a bookstore that buys, sells and trades new and vintage books, periodicals and records. If they don’t have what you are looking for, they’ll first check with their flagship store in Oxford. And if it isn’t available there, they’ll search via the internet to locate a copy if available. But they’ll also take the time to chat with you, thus giving them a taste of what suits your fancy.

The Reeses, Harry, Vanessa and Joanna, are the proprietors of both Food for Thought and The Maine Bookhouse. Vanessa manages the day-to-day operations in Norway, while Harry operates the Oxford store. Joanna divides her time between both stores and her farm.

There is a certain furry fourth member of this family team who greets each customer of the Main Street store with a wag of her tail—Stella. Not only is Stella the official store greeter, but she’s also a

therapy dog and thus always happy to lend a listening ear.

Walking into Food for Thought is like entering your grandmother’s home. The paneled woodwork and paint are on the darker but cheerful side, while overhead lights and table lamps offer an inviting ambiance. Books, record albums and periodicals grace the shelves, table tops and bay windows. More are stacked in various places on the floor. Several plants add greenery to the scene and local art enhances the displays. Throughout, chairs, stools and even a couch invite one to sit, read and chat, to stay a while. In the interest of repurposing, a former display case serves as their counter, and old windows and doors create room dividers. The overall effect is a reading refuge where you want to curl up and pass the time of day lost in a book.

The only thing missing that grandma’s attic may have—that musty smell.

There’s a good reason that the odor isn’t present—for though the books may be found in an attic or basement, they are all carefully hand selected for quality and condition. And then each item is cleaned.

The tricks of their trade—rubbing alcohol, Goo Gone and citrus oil.

They also take into consideration genres, names and overall desirability when making selections, though Vanessa references Harry’s motto, “Wherever there’s a book, we look.” Over the years, they’ve made many house calls, but have also attended estate and library sales. Weeding through books takes time (and grime), especially when the ultimate goal is not for just any book, but rather for enough good books. Their criteria when making selections: salability, scarcity and condition.

Occasionally, they happen upon one that serves as the jackpot for all their efforts—paying fifty cents for a yard sale find that they could turn around and offer for $7,000, less than its actual worth of $10,000, but keeping in mind that they pride themselves on being a discount shop.

Jo adds to that story the fact that they bought and sold thousands of books before finding that fifty cent gem. Even then, it took several months to sell and they turned down offers from two of the country’s biggest dealers who offered half the asking price. By holding out, they eventually found someone willing to pay the asking price.

In that particular case, it allowed them to purchase oil that winter.

Some prices reflect the fact that the inventory includes hard to find, out-of-print, rare books and limited, signed collectibles, such as a circa 1847 Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte or a first edition Jack Kerovac, but up a few steps from the first room is the large bargain area. For $2.50, I found a hard-covered copy of Footnotes on Nature

by John Kieran. It includes wood engravings

by Nora S. Unwin. This is a 1950 reprint and a delightful read about Kieran’s many walks throughout New York City and New England as he comments on his personal experience with the natural world. It’s one part nature essay and another part field guide. One of the most amusing aspects of the book is that while Kieran has many walking companions, he does not name them, but rather calls them by their vocations—the Drama Critic, the Astronomer, the Artist, the Magician. To say I’m pleased with my purchase is an understatement.

The Reeses got into the book business in a round-about manner. Harry, the founding father, is a musician with many talents.

His daughters describe him as a dreamer and a doer. In 1998, he began selling used books online. Eventually, the books took over the house and so he rented a storage unit. That led to the first store—you may remember Shoestring Books located just up Main Street at the western end of downtown Norway. In 2007, the business outgrew that location and he opened The Maine Bookhouse in Oxford. But . . . people kept asking when he’d return to Norway and so Food for Thought opened in May of 2016. Vanessa loves the current location,

with the two large window fronts that she dresses to entice walk-in customers.

“Something calls to them from the window, and they wander in to browse,” she says.

“We have a local following of book lovers, bargain shoppers and record people. They know this is a treasure.”

One of Vanessa’s favorite offerings is the collection of periodicals from the 1930s and ‘40s. She’s noticed that people are purchasing the old magazines such as Vogue, Fortune and Ladies Home Journal for fashion trends and framing purposes.

And then there are the record albums— an extensive vinyl collection that includes jazz, blues, folk, rock, classical and country titles. The sisters explain that they grew up with an appreciation of music, so it seemed only natural that when an offer came to purchase one man’s collection, they decided to add records to the shelves. The albums fit right in with the vintage feel of the shop, where receipts are handwritten and change is counted back to the customer.

With two storefronts and as members of the Maine Antiquarian Booksellers Association, the family will go above and beyond to try to locate those hard-to-find titles you may seek. If they can’t find it on a shelf in Maine, they’ll search through their worldwide network in hopes of meeting your reading, collecting and decorating needs.

This isn’t just any old used bookstore.

This is Food for Thought, where treasures abound and the inventory is ever changing. R Food for Thought is located at 446 Main Street in Norway. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 to 4:30. 207.743.9488

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Top 10 in 20

spring 2016

spring 2015

summer 2015

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summer 2009

Choosing ten covers to commemorate twenty years of Lake Living proved to be a not-so-simple task. As editor, I’ve often referred to the collective lot as my children, some of whom I like better than others. I could tell you that my preferences have nothing to do with outward appearance and everything to do with what’s inside, but that wouldn’t be completely honest. The first thing I want to see when a new issue arrives is the cover. Furthermore, I’ll admit to a blush of pride whenever I hear, “Nice

summer 2014

summer 2011

fall 2011

fall 2006

winter 2008

winter 2006

cover!”

It’s interesting to note which ones illicit the most response. Our fall 2011 cover actually prompted a phone call from the printer questioning the tromp l’oeil effect of the open barn door.

The summer 2011 cover resulted in a number of incorrect guesses as to the identity of the cover model (come on, people, it’s a golden retriever; they all look alike!). Spring 2014 came on the heals of a particularly long winter and several people claimed they could actually smell the lilacs. Similarly, spring 2016 fed the senses with the tantalizing feel and smell of warm soil. And the summer 2009 cover never fails to bring me back to the May morning when I saw our beautiful region from the jumpseat of the Green Parrot.

Then there’s Lily. This year marks the fourth year that she has been our cover girl. We’ve pretty much watched Lily grow up on the cover of Lake Living, starting with the sweet moment she shared with Samson in the summer of 2014. When Lily continued to eat her ice cream cone after Samson taste-tested it, we knew she was our kind of girl. R

lakelivingmaine .com 19

Life is Better and safer

At the Lake With These Ingenious Lakefront Accessories

The Perfect Bungee Boat Snubber won’t wear out or lose its shape.

Safely stretches to twice its original length. Available in several shapes, sizes, lengths and colors. Manufactured in the USA and guaranteed for life. $11.50 at GlobalIndustrial.com

Kingii is the new wristband for anyone who loves water! If you need help to stay afloat, pull the lever and an inflation bag will pull you to the surface. $89.99 at kingii.com

The Guardian is a universal bumper that protects your dock and your watercraft. Mounts to docks for vertical or horizontal use. $65 at Great Northern Docks in Naples.

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Looking for safe access to the water?

These aluminum water stairs with Thru Flow treads are textured to give you traction even when they’re wet. Manufactured in Maine at Great Northern Docks.

The Kayak Lift & Launch makes getting in and out of your kayak a breeze. No more embarassing entrances and exits to amuse the neighbors. Starting at $2,900 at Great Northern Docks in Naples.

Easy on. Easy Off. The ShoreMaster ShorePort® is dependable and easy to use, making it a favorite for individual personal watercraft owners and marinas. Available through Hammond Lumber, starting at $1,439.

Industrial-strenth solar powered lights by Lake Lite illuminate your dock for safe passage to and from your boat.

No more accidental dips after dark! Solar Dots are available in six different colors.

Available at lakelite.com.

Never spill another drink with the Yeti Rambler on board. Overengineered to fit comfortablly in your hand and keep your drink as cold (or hot) as science allows. With 18/8 stainless steel construction, double-wall vacuum insulation, and No Sweat™ Design, they’re virtually indestructible. Available at Hayes True Value in Bridgton.

DoriPole pennant flags act as a scarecrow deterrent to geese, ducks and other nuisance birds that may congregate on or around your dock or boat. Complete DoriPole kits $179 to $262 at DoriPole.com.

lakelivingmaine .com 21

In Your Spare Time by perri black

D

on’t call the Saco Valley Sports Center a bowling alley. Founder Jim Layne insists on calling it a bowling center. He says, “Alleys are where drunks hang out in the city.” And, indeed, the Saco Valley Sports Center is more than just somewhere to bowl a few frames.

Jim Layne opened Saco Valley Lanes for candlepin bowling in October 1980.

He began his career as a dairy farmer in North Chatham, New Hampshire, but always loved bowling and played in a local league for many years. He was also on the New England pro tour. Jim eventually sold his dairy farm, bought a piece of property on Pine Street in Fryeburg, and built Saco Valley Lanes, which is now the Saco Valley Sports Center.

The center’s sixteen lanes, originally constructed in the 1950s or ’60s, were relocated from a bowling center in Kennebunkport that closed in the 1970s. A company that specializes in dismantling defunct bowling centers (who knew there were such businesses?!) disassembled the lanes and stored them until Jim purchased and installed them in his new building.

Walking into the Saco Valley Sports Center today feels like a blast from the past. The

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“We all go bowling at the bowling lanes Drink a few beers Bowl a few frames We’re just ordinary average guys Ordinary average guys” joe walsh

turquoise and cream lane walls with silver crown logos in their centers are wonderful examples of retro chic, as are the molded fiberglass seats in a similar color scheme.

And the original pin-setting mechanism is most impressive. Frank, Jim’s son and the center’s manager, took me behind the scenes.

I was fascinated. Old photographs of textile mills in Lewiston and Lowell immediately sprang to mind, and I think the pin-setters are probably just as loud as the machinery in those factories. They still work beautifully, though, performing the task they were designed to do over fifty years ago—with efficiency and precision.

But appearances, even uber cool retro chic, can be deceiving. The center has had to evolve over the years in order to remain open. Frank said league play was popular in the 1980s and ‘90s. Every lane was full every night and he often didn’t get to go home until the wee hours of the morning.

He says there were some very good bowlers in the leagues but the crowd could be pretty rough, with a lot of imbibers and smokers.

Then league bowling crashed hard in the 1990s when laws were passed prohibiting smoking in public places. The economy crashed at the same time and a number of local bowling centers closed, including those in North Conway and Bridgton.

Fortunately, Jim and Frank were always interested in modern technology and they learned a lot attending conventions and trade shows. They also wanted to keep the bowling center up to date and moving forward. The Laynes installed digital scoring programs around 1995, probably the first ones in the state of Maine. Jim was an avid golfer, too, and at about the same time he installed three golf simulators, which were possibly the first established east of the Mississippi.

In addition to bowling and golfing, the

the Laynes added a couple of pool tables, as well as pinball machines and a variety of classic arcade games such as Pac-Man and Asteroids. The pool tables are still there but the arcade games have been updated to popular video and ‘redemption’ games, where the player earns tickets that can be redeemed for a range of prizes on site. I was particularly happy to see “The Claw” arcade game filled with fluffy, colorful soft toys waiting to be plucked up by some nerdy kid with well-developed hand-eye coordination (remember the scene from Toy Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEsh4W3dfI).

For those who get hungry while bowling or participating in one of the other activities at the center, there is also a foodcounter offering pizza, burgers, fries, and sodas, as well as a limited selection of beer, cider, and wine.

From the beginning, the Saco Valley Sports Center has been a family affair.

Frank and his sister, Jennifer, have always worked in the center with their dad, and Jim’s wife, Jayne Britton, frequently helps out when needed. Frank, who was also on the pro tour, has been in charge of running the place for a long time and he is getting ready to hand over the reins to his own son, Scott, who represents the third generation.

All along, Frank has kept up with industry trends and technology, and this seems to have paid off – he says business is good and even on the rise.

Today, the center caters mainly to casual play, with a focus on children’s events and family outings. In the 1990s, the Laynes installed retractable bumpers in some of the lanes to make it easier for youngsters to learn the game without the frustration of constant gutter balls. Although I am a dreadful bowler, I remember going bowling (albeit ‘big ball’ bowling) with friends at birthday parties and having a great time.

Frank says birthday bowling parties are still popular and they also have small, seasonal bowling leagues that begin playing in September, but the crowds today are not as rough as in the center’s early days and he now gets home by 10 p.m. most nights.

In addition to the league players and other locals, residents from the Morrison Center in Bridgton and Northern Country Independent Living in New Hampshire regularly come to bowl year round. During the summer, people from local camps, campgrounds, and rec centers hit the lanes, especially if the weather is not good for

“Skylar’s first time bowling was a time warp straight to the ‘60s! Only moderately computerized scoring and you push a button to reset the pins. Bowling with a toddler of course involved a few laps into the lanes to catch her. Luckily, we had the whole place to ourselves!” kim richard

outdoor activities. In the winter, groups of golf buddies come in to play on the golf simulators and they even have a nine-hole tournament at the end of the season. Kids from Fryeburg Academy, especially some of the boarding students, often stop by to play pool but they are not as interested in bowling.

It is rather comforting to know that some things haven’t changed much and yet they still remain popular. Although the Saco Valley Lanes may have digital scoring and a few video arcade games, it is still essentially the same as it was thirty years ago. It’s a

great way to get out of the house, unplug, get a little exercise, and actually engage face-to-face with other human beings. It’s also family-friendly and not very expensive.

Don’t wait for inclement weather to visit the Sports Center this summer (the place gets VERY busy on rainy days!) – strike out with some friends during your spare time and see what it’s all about. Who knows – you might even become hooked, join a league, and get to wear a trendy retro bowling shirt with your name embroidered on it! R

lakelivingmaine .com 23

Photo by photosbyrowley.com

“. . . well seasoned Cornish is salted with architectural gems and peppered with antiques and crafts shops.”

—Hilary Nangle Maine Travel Maven

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lakelivingmaine .com 25

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Sebago Kayak Company Make paddling part of your vacation— we bring your Sup Board or Kayak right to you.

(Delivery included on weekly rentals)

207-935-4763

www.sebagokayakcompany.com

lakelivingmaine .com 27

J

Who was your greatest influence as a chef? immy Burke’s love affair with food dates back to his childhood, Andre Meyer. He was my chef when I first started out in Waterwhen his parents owned a restaurant in South Boston and he ville Valley in the late ‘70s. He was a very tough guy, Swiss, but I worked there on Saturdays and holidays. At home, food was had tremendous respect for him, as I still do to this day. He got me every bit as important and he was fortunate to have his mother and the most important job of my career at Harvest in Cambridge. Talk aunts, all phenomenal cooks, as mentors. “I was always around about influence, he had a tremendous amount. He turned me on food and food became part of me,” recalls Jimmy. to the Swiss chef Frédy Girardet, After high school, he was who was then considered the offered a job on the Cape as greatest chef in the world. He a dishwasher and quickly rose had a tiny little restaurant in up the ladder. He discovered Crissier, Switzerland, and Andre he enjoyed cooking and liked got me in there for lunch and the energy of the kitchen, so he dinner all in one day. Frédy was applied and was accepted to the the rock star at that time.

Culinary Institute of America.

Back then, you know, there After he graduated, he worked weren’t very many famous chefs under Andreas Meyer, who in America, outside of Califoreventually helped Jimmy land nia. On the East Coast, outside a chef job at Harvest in Camof NYC, you know . . . Boston bridge. That really launched his certainly didn’t have any big career. It was the late ‘70s and name chefs. the beginning of celebrity chefs Who would you most like to and a three-year period that cook a meal for and what would would prove very influential. it be?

Almost immediately, the Mick Jagger. I’d make him owners sent him on a trip to pasta with white truffles. It’s one France to inform his palate. by laurie lamountain of my favorite dishes to cook and He spent three weeks eating at I do it well, so I know it would L’Auberge de I’Ill and several be a home run. I should say Mick Jagger and Keith Richard, but other Michelin-rated restaurants and it opened his senses to the either one. Or both. Yeah. (Ed. Note: Jimmy is a HUGE Stones fan complexities and subtleties of French cooking. Back in Cambridge, and has been to more than fifty of their concerts, including one in he became very good friends with Julia Child and often appeared Rome that his wife, Joanie, booked as a surprise birthday present, on television with her. He also studied food in Italy at a time when complete with an invitation to hang out with the Stones backstage.) he was trying to formulate in his mind what the French were doing What’s your “go-to” cookbook? versus what the Italians were doing. They both had a huge influI like Lidia Bastianich. She was the chef/owner of a great Italian ence on his cooking, but the simplicity of Italian cooking won out. restaurant in New York called Felidia. I’d eaten there many times After three years at Harvest, Jimmy realized he was ready to back in the day. I was inspired by her simple-yet-elegant Italian be his own boss. His father had always encouraged the entreprecuisine. I cook the same as her. Simple, great ingredients, simply neurial path and there was a restaurant called Allegro for sale in stated. I like her books a lot. She’s got three or four.

Waltham, Massachusetts. He bought it. When it opened in 1981, I also like Marcella Hazen. I used Marcella a lot when I was a Allegro established a new gold standard in the Boston area that was young chef. I also referred to Waverley Root’s classic The Food of met for the next ten years. The Tuscan Grille was another ten year Italy. That was my little bible when I decided to go the Italian route. run. In all, Jimmy has owned and operated twelve restaurants, the What are your favorite, most used ingredients? last three of which he has co-owned with his wife, Joanie Wilson.

Having lived on the East Coast my entire life, I love cooking Two years ago, he and Joanie bought the Wales and Hamblen with fish. I think I do a really good job with it. And I like eating it warehouse on Depot Street in Bridgton and completely renovated as well. Cod might be my favorite fish. it. Tragically, ten days prior to opening in June 2015, a fire deI love good olive oil. Good olive oil. I love porcini mushrooms stroyed the entire building and its contents. Jimmy recalls the only if I can get them. There’s two guys out in Lovell who can get them experience more devastating having been when his mom died. The every now and then, and they’ve got my number on speed dial. (Ed. response from the community was quick and decisive. note: Jimmy is referring to White Mountain Mushrooms, founded “I got to tell you, the Bridgton community came together for us by brothers Jimmie and Parker Veitch, who were featured in the like I’ve never seen. Joanie and I were a little embarrassed because summer 2016 issue of Lake Living.) we were always the ones to throw fundraisers. For them to do Best food memory? that for us, we knew [Bridgton] was a great place,” recalls Jimmy.

The first time I had white truffles in a dish. It was on a trip to He and Joanie began to rebuild almost immediately and they Northern Italy and I didn’t know what to expect. It’s such a unique opened Vivo six months later. The response has been, in Jimmy’s food because it’s rare and grows totally wild. People have tried to words, beyond their wildest dreams. farm [truffles] and you just can’t, but my thing was the taste and “I love what I do and I’m lucky. The restaurant business is not an easy the smell. Some people don’t like the smell. Some people think they life, but I still have a lot of passion for it. And Joanie and I are a great team.”

Cooking for Mick Jagger

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smell like dirty socks. After I had that dish, I was then able to go truffle hunting. I went out with two gentlemen and their dogs and we were out all day. That was pretty cool.

What’s in your fridge at home?

Not much. We usually have a good selection of vegetables, but because we own a restaurant we don’t keep a lot of food in the house. A-1 sauce. I love A-1 sauce on my steaks. And tabasco. I love tabasco.

What’s the meal you’re mostly likely to cook at home for you and Joanie?

Pasta with fresh herbs and tomatoes. I love cooking that one because I love eating it. We call it world famous pasta because a friend from many years ago loved it, and every time he’d have it in my restaurant he’d say, “That’s world famous.” Usually it’s spaghetti or linguini with a combination of extra virgin olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper and equal parts fresh chives, basil and parsley.

Favorite food/guilty pleasure?

I love bad Chinese food. I’m just not real fussy about Chinese food. And I always feel terrible after I eat it. I love ice cream, a lot, but I won’t keep it in the house because I’ll eat too much of it and hate myself the next day.

If you weren’t a chef, what would you be?

I considered two things. Oceanography and archaeology. They both intrigued me.

For a while I volunteered at the New England Aquarium. My job was to feed the fish.

I was a chef at the time and had my own restaurant. They didn’t know who I was or what I did and I’d go in there and cut up the fish and they’d say, “Boy, you’re good with a knife.”

(Pause.)

I’d love to be a rock star. Really. I love music and I’d love to be able to play the guitar.

Worst cooking disaster?

At Vivo. We had a wine dinner that was sold out and we ran out of meat for the main course before everybody was served. When I noticed we had more empty plates than we had steak for, I found out people were being served double what they were supposed to be. We were way off! I had to go into the refrigerator and get steaks that weren’t the same cut. It was such a disaster that I was upset for weeks over it. That was by far the worse . . . it still upsets me to this day.

(Of course, no one in the dining room even noticed.) R Vivo is located at 18 Depot Street in Bridgton.

For reservations call 207.647.8488.

mushroom risotto

8 c chicken stock infused with mushrooms stems and pieces 5 T unsalted butter 3 T olive oil 1 lb mixed mushrooms, sliced salt black pepper 2 T chopped fresh sage or thyme 1 small Spanish onion minced 2.5 c risotto rice ½ c dry white wine ½ c grated parmigiano

Bring stock to boil. Cook the mushrooms in some oil and butter until tender, set aside. In a deep heavy skillet over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until tender. Add rice and cook for about 3 minutes. Add white wine and cook till absorbed. Gradually add 1 cup of hot stock, stirring constantly until stock is absorbed by the rice. Then continue adding stock in about 1-cup increments until all the stock is absorbed, about 20+ minutes. Add the sage, mushrooms, parmesan and butter, and stir to incorporate. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Rice should be al dente and creamy. Serve immediately.

maine lobster fettuccine with sweet corn and basil butter Having lived in New England my whole life, this is favorite summer dish since I can get the best lobsters from Maine, plus fresh local corn and basil from the garden. The basil butter and cooked corn can be prepared a day in advance if necessary.

basil butter recipe 2 sticks butter – either salted or unsalted, just adjust seasoning accordingly ½ c fresh basil coarse salt and pepper Soften butter at room temperature. Combine basil and butter in a food processor and blend until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. Either roll the butter in wax paper, or place in a container and refrigerate until ready to use.

3 T butter 4 one-pound lobsters 1 lb fresh or good quality dry egg noodle (fettuccine will do) 3 ears fresh corn salt and pepper

Peel and boil corn in lightly salted water for 5 minutes. Cool and remove from cob. Save the water and use it to cook the pasta.

Boil lobsters for 5 minutes, cool and remove meat from shell. Split the tails and when ready, sauté gently in 3 Tbsp of butter. Add corn and continue to cook for two minutes.

Cook pasta according to directions on box, drain and toss in with lobster and corn.

Using half the basil butter, toss with lobster pasta mixture; use more if necessary and serve.

lakelivingmaine .com 29

summer bookshelf BOOK REVIEWS FROM THE OWNERS & STAFF OF BRIDGTON BOOKS

JUSTIN’S LIST

World War II was an incredible time of hardship and adversity for our country. Almost everyone was involved in the war effort, but arguably only a few were able to influence the outcome single-handedly. Indestructible: One Man’s Mission That Changed the Course of World War II, by John R. Bruning, tells the true story of one of these heroes in his portrayal of P. I. Gunn, a pilot and self-taught engineer. Gunn owned a charter airplane business in the Philippines when the war broke out. He was shuttling around rear-echelon brass when the island was overrun by the Japanese and his family imprisoned in an internment camp. Quick to realize that “Naval” Aircraft and warfare needed to be modified if the Allies were to be successful in the Pacific Theater, his exploits and innovations are legendary.

I read or listened to a few dozen mysteries this past winter and here are three of my favorites. In The Silence of The Sea by Yrsa Sigurdardóttir, a yacht arrives to port on auto-pilot with no one on board. Lawyer/ investigator Thora and her ornery assistant are hired by family members of the missing crew to figure out what happened in this “Closed Room” mystery. Well plotted and with strong characters, this Scandinavian Crime Novel of the Year will keep you guessing right up until its haunting conclusion. Minnesota author Kent Krueger’s Cork O’Connor mysteries are decent reads, but his stand alone novel, Ordinary Grace,

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reaches a higher level of excellence. Winner of the Edgar Award for best mystery, it is more a coming-of-age novel in my opinion.

Narrated by thirteen-year-old Frank, along with his younger brother Jake in tow, the boys’ innocence and their town’s peaceful tranquility are shattered one summer by a series of tragic events. The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens is faster and more of a pageturner than the previous two. Joe Talbert is a mature college student with an autistic brother and deadbeat mother. For his major English project he has to write a biography, and he picks Carl Iverson, a Vietnam veteran and convicted killer, to interview.

Karl has always maintained his innocence, and as Tom digs deeper into the crime with the help of his new girlfriend, they uncover layer after layer of secrets, taking them on a crazy ride.

Count Rostov is luckier than most of his aristocratic peers when the Bolsheviks take power after the Russian Revolution. Instead of being shot or exiled to Siberia, he is sentenced to live and work in the hotel where he previously maintained an elegant suite. Living in his new tiny room in the attic, the unfolding of the Soviet Union is seen through the Count’s eyes, as he adapts to his new lifestyle as a waiter instead of a guest in the novel A Gentleman In Moscow by Amor Towels.

The Count and his cohorts are unforgettable characters, and this story is a masterpiece that should be savored like a bottle of fine wine, which incidentally is used to epitomize the futility of the Soviet experiment.

Frederick Russell Burnham, “the American scout” (1861-1947), is often a footnote to legendary western figures Wyatt Earp and Buffalo Bill Cody, but he was always an enigma to me. A Splendid Savage, a wonderful biography by Steve Kemper,

has lifted the veil on his life. A self-made man, Burnham, at the age of twelve, was already working full time in California as a horseback messenger to pay off family debts after his father died. He learned everything he could from the old-timers and was eventually involved in the rancher’s conflict in the Arizona Territory, the Apache Wars, homesteading and prospecting in Africa, the Alaskan Gold Rush, and then back to Africa to scout for the English during the Boer War, where he went behind enemy lines more than a hundred times.

The Women In The Castle, a new novel

by Jessica Shattuck, offers a unique perspective of the ever-popular World War II genre.

It features three German women in the aftermath of the war. Germany was in ruins with the U.S. and the Soviet Union jousting for power. Marianne, whose husband was executed for his role in a plot to kill Hitler, vows to help the other widows whose husbands also died in the attempt. The German rebuilding process consists not only of the physical components, such as fixing roads and infrastructure, but the mental repair of assessing their role in the war in an attempt to heal from it.

SUE’S SELECTIONS

Paulette Jiles’ recent novel, News of the World, is a wonderful story about two individuals separated by many years and cultures. An older gentleman, Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, who has given up fighting Indians and outlaws, chooses to once again endanger himself by delivering a young girl, who knows no other family than the Indians who captured and raised her and is frightened by and distrustful of everything and everyone, to her family 400 miles away.

Fredrick Backman does it again with another humorous, heartwarming story; Britt-Marie Was Here. Britt-Marie made her debut in Backman’s previous novel as a persnickety busybody, who catered to her husband only to discover he was unfaithful.

In Britt-Marie Was Here, she ventures out on her own in a world she’s unaccustomed to and finds herself managing a recreation center in a desolate town. Britt-Marie is not as helpless as you might think. She’s my hero!

Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler is a funny, endearing takeoff on The Taming of the Shrew. Kate is stuck at home keeping house for her research scientist father and her moody adolescent sister. She has limited prospects and little hope for romance in her life. Her father, who can only focus on his research, tries to involve Kate in a crazy scheme that will allow his research assistant to remain in the U.S.

PAM’S PICKS FOR KIDS & YOUNG ADULTS Adventures with Barefoot Critters

by Teagan White Ages Birth+ Pack a lunch and a backpack and get ready to go on an adventure with the adorable Barefoot Critters. This is far more than an ABC book. Follow the little critters over the hills, through the woods and into your house, as they go for an action packed journey you will want to read over and over again.

Charming watercolor illustrations with nature’s earthtone hues are so precious, you will want to frame each page.

Sky fishing

by Gideon Sterer Ages 2+ Grandpa sadly packed his fishing rods knowing he would have no use for them in the city. His grand-daughter tried to engage him in various indoor activities, but nothing replaced his passion for fishing. One day they threw open the window, stories above the bustling streets, and cast their rods hoping to make a catch, but to no avail. Determined to hook something, they cast off again and to their delight the street below morphed slowly into an ocean full of goldfish, hammerheads and other city denizens that transformed into wonders found in the ocean.

Brightly colored illustrations highlight the humorous and playful storyline that makes you wish it could happen.

The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors

by Drew Daywalt Ages 3+ Rock roamed his yard, challenging anyone willing to battle him, but the outcome was always the same. Rock was the reining champion crushing his foes, so he decided to search far and wide for a worthy challenger.

Paper was in the same predicament as Rock. He was victorious in all his battles and unable to find a perfect match.

Scissors swiftly sliced his way through all his wars and never quite felt satisfied until one day Rock, Paper and Scissors meet and the games begin. The strong message at the end of the book teaches kids a valuable lesson on the true meaning of competition.

The Princess in Black

by Shannon and Dean Hale Ages 6+ Real princesses don’t wear black! Right?

Princess Magnolia has a secret. Hidden in her broom closest is a black warrior outfit

that transforms her into a Black Princess, ready to fight off unruly monsters. One day the noisy Duchess Wigtower, determined to uncover Princess Magnolia’s secret, shows up unannounced. During the visit, Princess Magnolia’s monster alarm goes off and she must leave the Duchess alone while she attends to the perilous situation. While away, Duchess Wigtower starts snooping around the castle. Find out what she discovers and if Princess Magnolia’s secret is revealed.

The Ethan I Was Before

by Ali Standish Ages 10+ Moving to Georgia was not a choice.

Ethan was desperate to escape his painful past and haunting memories of a tragic accident for which he blamed himself. But moving on doesn’t erase the past.

Unexpectedly, Ethan befriends Coralee, a girl with outlandish stories and possibly secrets of her own. Ethan suspects Coralee is hiding something, and now she must prove her stories are part of her past and that her friendship is genuine.

Part adventure/part mystery, this pageturner is a must summer read!

Hideout

by Watt Key Ages 11+ Reviewed by Ezra Gronlund Twelve-year-old Sam Ford, the new kid in town, is having some problems. He got beaten senseless in front of the entire school and now his only friend is a lazy, video game-playing kid who’s the least popular kid in school. It’s no wonder Sam wants to

get away from it all in the swamp behind his new home. He takes his boat out for hours on end and searches for a rumored dead body that the authorities never found.

When Sam finds a boy named Davey, living in an abandoned swamp camp, his life changes forever, and he and Davey become friends. However, as Sam visits Davey more and more, something begins to not feel right about the mysterious boy. For Davey has his secrets too, and their friendship might come at a price. This suspenseful, wellwritten book had me captivated from the first sentence.

Everything Beautiful is Not Ruined

by Danielle Younge-Ullman Ages 15+ Ingrid spent her childhood traveling the world with her famous mother, MargotSophia. Life was filled with music and love as her mother’s opera voice was admired by audiences in packed opera houses. Life in the spotlight comes to an abrupt end one day in Europe, though, and dealing with this new unexpected turn of events is heart wrenching for her. Margot-Sophia didn’t want her daughter ending up like her so she challenged her to attend a three-week wilderness camp. Ingrid quickly found out the pamphlet’s photos of beautiful cabins in the woods were replaced by grueling hikes, pitching tents, canoeing and torturous mosquitoes she was determined to kill one by one. Harsh conditions and unexpected campmates tugged at Ingrid’s determination to prove her mother wrong, but Ingrid was desperate to follow her dream.

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summer bookshelf BOOK REVIEWS FROM THE OWNERS & STAFF OF BRIDGTON BOOKS

PERRI’S PREFERENCES North Korea has been in the news a lot lately, which is fueling my long-time fascination with the country. Imagine how thrilled I was to see the colorful propaganda poster screaming from the cover of The Accusation, a collection of short stories written clandestinely by a North Korean author actually living in North Korea and operating under the pseudonym Bandi. The book was smuggled out of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) through an intricate network of friends, relatives, strangers, and very fortunate circumstances, although I question how the author’s anonymity is being handled. The stories reveal the lives of ordinary people living under the brutally oppressive Kim family regime: a woman whose family pays a steep price because her child is afraid of posters; the frustrations of a man’s struggle to visit his dying mother; and the tragic end of a lifelong, die-hard Communist. These stories are cast in a particularly interesting light because the author still remains inside the Hermit Kingdom.

I also read North Korea: On the Inside Looking In (with another good propaganda poster on the cover) by Irish engineer Dualta Roughneen, who lived in North Korea from 2004 to 2007 while working on water and sanitation projects. His job enabled him to travel to places where foreigners are usually not allowed, offering him unique insights into how the isolated country works. I am almost finished with North Korea’s Hidden Revolution: How the Information Underground is Transforming a Closed Society, a fascinating glimpse into ways the DPRK may be slowly changing despite itself.

Short stories are very difficult to write – the form offers little time to develop plot, background, and characters, and no space for extra words. In my opinion, a good short story is a little masterpiece, which certainly applies to the stories in Refugees,

by Viet Thanh Nguyen, Pulitzer Prize winning author of The Sympathizer. These exquisite little tales delve into the minds of people dealing with ghosts and disturbing memories, making life-changing decisions, and navigating difficult relationships. With

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beautiful, carefully chosen words, Nguyen sheds light on the immigrant experience and the struggles faced by those who leave one country to, they hope, settle in another.

Maine author (and Pulitzer Prize winner) Elizabeth Strout is another master short story writer and her latest book, Anything is Possible, confirms she is a damn good writer. The stories in this collection are mainly set in small Midwestern towns and the characters are all loosely connected to the protagonist of her previous book, My Name is Lucy Barton. These are real people – you probably know them in your own town – and Strout tells their tales sympathetically in straightforward, unsentimental, and direct prose. Now I really want to read My Name is Lucy Barton.

In The Underground Railroad, by Colson Whitehead (winner of this year’s National Book Award and Pulitzer Prize), the titular railroad actually has trains that run through subterranean tunnels, bringing runaway slaves to different parts of the antebellum South. Escaped slave, Cora, an outcast even among her own people, undertakes a journey on the railroad and visits numerous places where she and other black people are treated in different ways, some good and some bad. Slavery, in all its manifestations and with all its associated evils, makes for an often violent and gruesome read, but I learned facts I did not know before and came away with a better perspective on why it is so hard to put history behind us, and why we continue to suffer from the sins of our past.

Setting Free the Kites by Alex George

is set in a fictional mill town in mid-coast Maine, beginning in 1976, but told as a flashback from 2016. Tragedy brings Robert Carter and Nathan Tilly together under peculiar circumstances and the two become best friends. Their relationship grows through joys and sorrows in the small town and the amusement park run

by Robert’s father, until life comes around full circle with one extreme act. This book reminds me a little of early John Irving novels, complete with a host of strange but likable characters (including dogs) and odd but realistic situations – rather like real life we all must cope with every day.

Last, but definitely not least, is The Invisible Life of Ivan Isaenko, by Scott Stambach, an almost unbearably sad yet extremely funny story of horribly deformed, seventeen-year-old Ivan Isaenko, a lifelong resident of the Mazyr Hospital for Gravely Ill Children in Belarus. I listened to this as an audio book, which may be the best way to “read” it – the reader’s accent and intonation really kick it up a level. Early on Ivan says, “Apparently I was a menace even before I was old enough to choose to be one.” Indeed, he fights with the nurses and gets into trouble while making acute, often acerbic, observations and recording them on his laptop. But everything changes when Polina arrives and flips Ivan’s world upside down. This very memorable read filled with situations so tragic you have to laugh and so funny they make you cry, has been described as “The Fault in Our Stars meets One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest.”

Happy summer reading! R

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