Lklsu15 web by Laurie LaMountain

FREE summer 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ vol. 18, no. 2

Linden Longboards equine healers outdoor textbook spirit of tradition water everywhere?

lakelivingmaine.com

At K&W Aggregates at Frost Mountain in Brownfield, we have all of the gravel, stone, loam, and quarry products you need for your next lawn, driveway, or landscaping project.

Screened Loam Crushed Stone Crushed Gravels Sand Reclaimed Asphalt We deliver throughout the White Mountain foothills and lakes region of western Maine. Call for delivery and pricing.

207-452-8888

Kandwaggregates.com

Locally Owned & Operated lakelivingmaine.com

editor’s note

summer 2015 • vol. 18, no. 2

8 linden longboards

16 raise the curtain

10 the secret language

18 water, water everywhere?

22 summer calendar 24 craft works

This issue of Lake Living is dedicated to my mother, Rita Mycko LaMountain, who has encouraged me to use this magazine as a means to express my opinion on matters that can make a difference. The question of who owns and controls water rights is a hotly contested one, especially since largescale, commercial water extraction has become commonplace practice, and it’s why I wrote “Water, Water Everywhere?” for this issue. Creating awareness around this most precious of resources may not be as entertaining as recollections of jawdropping stunts performed on trick waterskis at Cypress Gardens in the ‘50s or lake fishing in Grandpa’s Lyman Offshore “upta camp” as a kid, but neither memory would be possible without water. Nor would the shared memories of time spent together at Camp To Belong on Bear Pond in Waterford be available to foster siblings who are reunited there for one week each year. We live in a special corner of the world, where water provides a yearround playground of lakes, rivers and ponds. Unlike a growing number of regions in the world where there is water scarcity, we seem blessed with a wealth of it. With that wealth, however, comes an attendant responsiblity to use it wisely, share it fairly and protect it for our own and future generations. It’s up to all of us, individually and collectively, to make a difference. —Laurie LaMountain

Contributing Photographers Ethan McNerney, Charles Linden, Kevin Murphy 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 ©2015. 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.

lakelivingmaine.com

of siblings

by leigh macmillen hayes

11 equine healers

by perri black

12 the outdoor textbook

Editor & Publisher Laurie LaMountain Contributing Writers Leigh Macmillen Hayes, Perri Black, Randy Randall, Justin Ward, Pam Ward, Susan Connolly

by laurie lamountain

by leigh macmillen hayes

14 in the spirit of

tradition

by laurie lamountain

cover photo ethan mcnerney

leigh macmillen hayes by laurie lamountain

by laurie lamountain

26 summer bookshelf

reviews from bridgton books

30 electricity changes

everything by randy randall

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

lakelivingmaine.com

by laurie lamountain

“Longboarding is better for the Earth because the only gas it uses comes from the rider.”

longboardusa.com

Denmark, Maine, just got way cooler, thanks to the recent arrival of Linden Longboards. Owner Charles Linden moved here with his wife, Suzi, last fall and set up shop repurposing vintage, trick waterskis into longboards, which, for the uninitiated like me, are cruiser skateboards that are meant to get you from point A to point B. Shortboards are for messing around in confined areas, like skate parks. When asked how he came up with the idea of turning trick waterskis into skateboards, Linden has this to say: “My parents had this guy living in their basement who was a trick waterski champion of Sweden in the ‘60s. He gave me this pair of trick waterskis and every time I tried to ride them I got hurt because they had no fins! Several years later I found them in the closet and I asked my wife, ‘What should we do with these?’ and she said ‘Those look like skateboards.’ And I was like, oh, that’s brilliant! So it was kind of a combination of, she says they look like skateboards, I’m

lakelivingmaine.com

gonna put wheels on them. The first ones were pretty much a failure because when you put trucks [the hardware on which the wheels are mounted] and wheels on a board that wide, the wheels bind, grabbing the board, and you basically stop on a dime. It’s like putting the brakes on.” After consulting with a skate shop owner in Maui who makes skateboards that look like mini surfboards and are wider than most, Linden learned that the secret to peak performance is spacers, risers actually, that lift the wheels about an inch off the board. From there, he developed a template for fabricating his own risers out of red oak that he mounts between the boards and the trucks. The very first thing Linden does, however, is remove all the hardware from the skis and repair any weak seams by sanding, gluing and clamping them. He refinishes all of his boards with shellac and sometimes mixes it with a bit of beach sand for grip. He then attaches the risers to the bottom of the board, using a template he created after

“It brings you back to your childhood in the ‘70s, when things were safe and fun and you played outside all the time, so my main audience is people in their 40s and 50s.”

a good bit of trial and error, that allows him to precisely position the trucks. “Getting everything to line up is tricky and I’ve gotten really good at it,” says Linden. Hardware is top-of-the-line and sourced through Paris Trucks and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), for which Linden is a distributor. The wheels, complete with Bones Red bearings, are mounted on Paris Trucks and are the last thing to go on. Black is his preferred color. It took roughly a year for Linden to get the logistics of turning trick waterskis into skateboards and when he finally got it down he took them on the road. His first show was a Maker Faire at Georgia Tech. The beauty of selling his boards at shows is that people have an opportunity to try them out. He notes that a few people who’ve taken his boards for a test drive have disappeared for quite some time, even eliciting offers of help to find them, which is when they usually show up. One can only assume they were having so much fun they lost track of time. Asked if he’s a skateboarder, Linden responds, “Sure, I used to have a little plastic skateboard when I was a kid in California. It was just how we got around. Living in Atlanta later on, I did a lot of waterskiing and wakeboarding. It’s all kind of the same thing. Paddleboards are this whole new thing coming out of Hawaii and now I’m making poles to use with my skateboards that allow you to go for miles and miles over greenway trails. It’s great exercise.” Boards from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s are lined up in Linden’s shop and no two are alike. It’s important to note that trick waterskis are shorter than traditional waterskis. A Cypress Gardens Trikmaster is made from a 45” ski from the ‘50s and it’s

beautiful. The Hustler is a 41-inch board from the ‘70s. Other boards include Cut n’ Jump Larry Penacho T-360, Ricky McCormick Masters Champion Board and Western Wood Mike Suyderhoud. Stickers with the name of the trick waterskier who owned them sometimes grace the boards. Linden endeavors to keep as much of the original, now vintage, details as possible. While he plans to open the doors to his shop (barn, really) to the public this summer, he is realistic about his somewhat remote location along a dirt road in Denmark. Most of his customers are those he meets at shows or on-line through Facebook, Etsy and his own Web site. They are a varied lot that range from kids and teenagers to 40 and 50-something-year-olds who are lured by the nostalgia factor. “It brings you back to your childhood in the ‘70s, when things were safe and fun and you played outside all the time, so my main audience is people in their 40s and 50s,” says Linden. “I think a lot of Gen Xers are a little disgruntled with the way things are now. They’ve worked really hard and don’t necessarily have pensions anymore to show for it. They’re kind of looking back to when they were the happiest and usually it’s when they were kids and they had skateboards and bikes. It’s this whole reminiscence of being younger. And as adults, they really appreciate the inlaid woods and the beauty of the boards, so it kind of hits them on two levels.”

A third possibility is that they’re channeling Busby Berkeley, an infamous and eccentric Hollywood movie director and musical choreographer who brought trick waterskiing to television viewers across America back in the heyday. Think Esther Williams and insanely daring displays on water. Linden points out that the advent of wakeboarding put an end to trick waterskiing and it’s now getting harder and harder to find trick skis. He tells of a lead he had tracked down in Cypress Gardens that, it turns out, had a big bonfire with the mountain of skis he had in storage. These days Linden uses the Internet and word of mouth to connect with people who have old skis in storage they might want to unload. Linden Longboards sell from around $150 to $300. Because he repurposes all of the skis himself, Linden isn’t selling a ton of boards, although he envisions eventually milling his own from scratch, using three or four of his best-selling, best-riding boards as patterns. At that point, he hopes to employ people for the production. “The best compliment I ever got was at a show in Atlanta from a customer who, back in the ‘70s when they were reinventing skateboarding, was doing longboarding. He told me my boards brought back a flood of memories of ‘back in the day.’” Now, even if you don’t have those memories to reflect on, Linden Longboards is here to create them anew. R

lakelivingmaine.com

The Secret Language of Siblings by leigh macmillen hayes

he lights are dimmed and strains of “Happy Birthday to You” waft through the summer night as candlelit cakes are delivered to each table. In the spirit of the moment, there’s laughter and joy, hugs and maybe even a few tears. Welcome to a special ceremony at Camp To Belong Maine. For many of us, celebrating birthdays with family members is one of many timehonored traditions. Not so for children in foster care who are separated from their siblings. All too often, they also miss out on sharing holidays, weddings and even the simple, every day habit many of us take

10 lakelivingmaine.com

for granted—waking up in the same house. Or fighting for bathroom time; whispering in the dark; sharing a secret language on road trips. In my own experience of family, we squabbled plenty and laughed often. I now realize that growing up as the baby, with an older brother and sister, was like performing in a dress rehearsal. They gave me the cues on how to interact with others—and it was okay if I didn’t always deliver my line correctly. The important thing was, they were there to guide me on the stage of life. While our relationship with our siblings is most likely the longest in our lives and

often a source of comfort and support, foster children don’t have that opportunity. Regular visits may be recommended for some who can’t be placed together, but in reality, the visits don’t always occur. Lynn Price knew firsthand the experience of growing up in foster care and understood the pain of losing a childhood spent with her sister. For this reason, she initiated Camp To Belong, a residential camp that brings separated siblings together for a week. The concept of “giving siblings the right to unite” began in Las Vegas and expanded to Colorado during the mid-90s. It was launched in Maine after a young woman saw Ms. Price on an Oprah Winfrey show and contacted her. She came here for a teen conference and met with a group including representatives from the Muskie School of Public Service, Department of Health and Human Services, foster parents, social service agencies and other concerned caseworkers. In 2003, events were held to raise awareness of this camp concept and Camp Wigwam was chosen as the site for the six-day session. Owned by Bobby and Jane Strauss, Camp Wigwam is located on Bear Pond in Waterford and offers regular camp sessions throughout the season. The staff stays on for an additional week to provide programs and food for Camp To Belong. Heidi Krieger was working for the Muskie School when her boss asked her to organize the first walkathon to raise funds for the non-profit camp. That experience opened the proverbial door for her to become camp director, executive director and ultimately, the fairy godmother of Camp To Belong Maine. Heidi’s passion for reuniting siblings and empowering them to form a bonding relationship is contagious. She talks a mile a minute as she describes the camp experience and what it means to the children, the counselors and to herself. Her eyes fill with tears of joy and sometimes pain as she shares stories. Children step off the bus on the first day, often filled with anxiety. But, Heidi says, if you were to walk in a few days later, you’d think you were at any camp in Maine. They are soon laughing and fighting together as they kayak, swim and play games. And then there’s the cabin time. It’s here that conversations can occur that don’t happen during supervised visits. In the safe, supportive atmosphere of the cabin, the children are able to work through some of their challenges—the burdens of guilt, trauma, continued on page 33

Equine Healers

ethan mcnerney

by perri black

hink about how it feels to be wheelchair-bound and totally reliant upon others to help you with even the most basic daily tasks. Or to be unable to communicate with people and maintain satisfying relationships with those closest to you. Now imagine a magical place where you are taller than everyone around you, and are responsible for a large, powerful animal with whom you can bond and learn to communicate in a different way. Such amazing transformations are regular occurrences through Equine Journeys at the Ring Farm on Upper Ridge Road in Bridgton. A member of the nonprofit Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH), Equine Journeys offers a new perspective on life for people dealing with physical and intellectual disabilities or issues. Participants in their programs learn about more than just riding. Instead of someone always taking care of them, they learn how to care for someone else—in this case, a horse. The benefits of therapeutic horsemanship

have become increasingly well known in recent years. It has the unique potential to help riders calm down and gain confidence. It gives them “legs” so they can move independently and puts them in a position of control. During each hour-long session, one staff member leads a horse and rider while others work as “sidewalkers” to ensure safety. In addition to enjoying a new sense of freedom, riders also perform exercises and play games while on the horse, which improves their motor skills, coordination and flexibility. Most of the participants in Equine Journeys programs have had no previous experience with horses, but by grooming “their” horse and acquiring basic horsemanship skills they gain confidence and learn about bonding, trust and communication. Each rider usually works with the same horse and staff member during the hour-long lesson, so close relationships form. Occasionally, however, riders will be assigned a different horse or staff member. If approached in a positive way, this presents an opportunity

to help them learn to cope with change. Equine Journeys staff must be able to manage a wide range of situations involving both animals and humans. Flexibility, safety and calmness are essential. In addition to their extensive experience with horses, they undergo many hours of intensive training in first aid, teaching, and working with both abled and disabled people to become certified by PATH as instructors. Of course, the horses are vital to the success of the programs and are therefore carefully chosen. It is not easy to find animals suitable for this kind of work. Horses are sensitive and intuitive; they mirror interior feelings and can help people learn to communicate through body language and touch. Equine Journeys’ horses must be calm, friendly, level-headed and able to cope with a variety of riders. They need to be naturally protective of their riders and able to accommodate those with uneven balance and other physical issues. Additionally, they need to be trained to accept environmental continued on page 33 lakelivingmaine.com

by leigh macmillen hayes

“

he kids have been reading The Tracker by Tom Brown, Jr.,” biology teacher Joel Rhymer says. Within the confines of a classroom, the students and teachers talk about the book, as well as the animal and bird signs they might see in the field. Then they are paired up and sent out to hunt for animal tracks and listen for and observe birds. Back in the classroom, they’ll report their findings. “Be Tom,” English teacher Joy Norkin tells the co-ed group of freshman. “Observe disturbance. Observe birds.” This is my kind of class. Unfortunately, when I was in high school, the closest I got to this sort of opportunity was an oceanography course. At Fryeburg Academy, freshmen (and next year, sophomores as well) may choose to participate in the Outdoor Learning and Research Center program (OLRC), which focuses on academic challenges, adventure and leadership in conjunction with artistic and creative development. Students are encouraged to find their place in the natural world through course work based on experiential learning. That may sound like a 1970’s-80’s education model, but it’s been proven that outdoor learning encourages better use of the senses and provides motivation for students who may otherwise be disengaged. Direct contact with nature is what Richard Louv strongly advocates for in his

12 lakelivingmaine.com

books, Last Child in the Woods (2005) and The Nature Principle (2011). Louv coined the term “nature-deficit disorder—the human costs of alienation from nature, among them: diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses . . . By sighting the consequences of the disorder, we also can become more aware of how blessed our children can be—biologically, cognitively, and spiritually—through positive physical connection to nature.” Strongly believing in the power of this physical connection and that kids need to embrace their own learning, Rhymer says, “The goal of the OLRC is to build academically challenging interdisciplinary courses that give kids the complex skills they need across all disciplines that help them understand and solve real world problems.” He has been a biology/science teacher at the academy for the past sixteen years and was the director of Tin Mountain Conservation Center prior to that. Because engaging kids is part of his psyche, he knows they pose many questions. He and Norkin want them to seek answers on their own, and then apply the final outcomes to their learning. “When you get the group focused and away from their phones and laptop screens,” says Rhymer, “it can become a special moment.” For the past school year, fifteen freshman participated in the OLRC as a half-day

pilot program. (The rest of their day was spent in their regular courses.) The holistic approach crosses multiple disciplines, e.g. biology, environmental science, English, art, digital media and wellness. Next year, the plan is to increase the numbers in the freshmen course and open it to sophomores. The tenth graders will build on the previous year’s work and add chemistry and American history to the mix as they take a more global look at ecological systems. We all know that location is everything and it holds true for this program. Students step out the door, walk down a wooded path and are immediately engulfed in the Saco River intervale—former agricultural fields, vernal pools, mountain views and the river. Within five minutes, they are removed from town on a 63-acre piece of property the academy is in the process of purchasing. Norkin says, “The classroom walls dissolve when we explore. We’re able to step right out the door and see a Snowy Owl or witness a Northern Harrier hover in flight and successfully grab its prey.” The space invites observation about the interconnectedness of all things. Arriving in the field, the group transforms from chatty freshmen to citizen scientists. On the morning I visit, I sense the hush as they quiet down and focus on birds by listening to songs, looking for field marks and recording their findings. They check

The outdoor classroom doesn’t end at the perimeter of the property or the barriers of a particular building space. They’ve gone on trips to locations such as northern Maine to learn about the forest industry and to the top of Mount Washington to learn what the scientists do at the observatory. When asked to write about favorite memories of this past year, Addison, an energetic young man who hands me a fourleaf clover, says, “Sitting on top of Mount Washington with my OLRC family. It was

michelle barker

muddy sites for animal tracks, locate an old bird nest and a former animal burrow, and examine insect-chewed leaves. Some even catch a quick view of an aquatic animal, either a muskrat, beaver or otter. They aren’t certain, but give reasons why it might be one rather than the other two. I tag along with Hayley and Isaiah. She’s the scribe for their team, while he carries the field guides. Isaiah has an ear for identifying birds. He hears an American Redstart and asks his teacher to verify. Rhymer agrees with him. Then Isaiah spots a male Mallard. Quietly, he points it out to Hayley and she jots it down. A classmate sees it and announces the duck’s presence, to which Isaiah comments that he saw it first. A healthy competitiveness has developed within this close-knit group. A few students head off across the field and when everyone meets up again, they are excited to announce that they’ve licked slugs to experience the numbing effect on their tongues—slug slime contains an anesthetic and the students have learned that Native Americans used them to overcome toothaches.

so peaceful and quiet, and at the same I was learning. It was special.” Talking with Rhymer and Norkin, plus Assistant Head of School Joe Manning, and Communications & Marketing Coordinator Dan Lounsbury, I catch their contagious enthusiasm. They have visions to expand—programs including farm-to-dining hall gardening; forestry and land management; a birdhouse trail around the edge of the property; a bee hotel to increase awareness and promote conservation of pollinators; outdoor yoga classes; May programs; summer camps; the list goes on. Ultimately, exposure to the OLRC will be on the radar of all students. Head of School Erin Mayo says she’s excited about the humanity shift in the sophomore year and the increase of interdisciplinary connections. “We want enrollment in 9th and 10th courses to grow, and in the next five to seven years, we also want to increase the number of curricular offerings out of the OLRC that will utilize and take advantage of the property.” As it evolves, the program is sure to change. One of the things that excites everyone as they discover what other schools are doing, is the realization that their program is ahead of the curve. With the blessing of the administration, they have built OLRC into the school’s curriculum, rather than simply adding an after-school outing club. “It’s important that we get kids outside,” says Rhymer, “and let them see the natural world around them. So many kids haven’t taken a walk in the woods.” The participating students are intricately experiencing the web of life and its complex natural and societal systems. How fortunate they are to be able to read the outdoor textbook. R

What would you tell next year’s freshman?

I love waking up in the morning wondering what fun thing we might do in school. ~Ben

Take in everything that you see and everything that happens because once the moment is gone, you won’t be able to relive it. Eventually, you’ll realize you had the best freshman experience out of anyone and it’s a once-in-alifetime thing. ~Hayley

When you’re all by yourself, and it’s raining outside, and you’re sitting in a small den of tree branches and leaves, you really start to understand how amazing and beautiful nature really is. ~Julian

There’s nothing better than walking in the OLRC fields in the sun on a warm spring day and you’re excited about learning. It’s like there’s nothing else around but the sun, green grass, birds, and the new family that you’ve been adopted in as part of OLRC. What else would you want to do in school? ~Amanda lakelivingmaine.com

early everyone you speak with who has fallen in love with boats remembers their first time. For me it was a 31’ wooden Tahiti ketch. I was seven. It was old and dank and sailed like a bathtub, and I loved it. I would never be the same.” This reminiscence of his first boat is what Derek Wright, a yacht design program instructor at The Landing School in Arundel, Maine, refers to as the “bug” or “patient zero.” And it was the defining element that

“

14 lakelivingmaine.com

he and fellow faculty members kept as their creative inspiration when designing the LS17 Sports Utility Runabout. Think fishing on the lake in Grandpa’s Lyman Offshore or waterskiing all day “upta camp” and then finding a cool spot to beach the boat and start a bonfire—all memories from years gone by that foster a lifelong passion for the lifestyle that is the lakes. According to Wright, how the LS-17 came about is twofold. “Since the students are our primary concern, we needed a boat

that met our curriculum requirements, however, we also wanted a product with market appeal. Ken Rusinek, another faculty member and designer, was the creative spark for the project. It was clear that the LS-17 matched well with the requirements of the students, and as the project took shape we really felt we had hit on an untapped niche.” While Wright confesses to a soft spot for retro boats, he emphasizes that the design team for the LS-17 carefully and consciously avoided creating a boat that would be deemed a replica. To do this, they drew on a “what would that boat have looked like if drawn today” concept that blends classic, traditional appeal with modern function. The result is a boat that titillates the owner’s sense of nostalgia, but is much easier to maintain than its predecessor and has just enough of the designers’ stamp to make it truly original. To wit, faculty at The Landing School attest to the fact that they, as well as their students, can readily identify boats they’ve designed and built. In the case of the LS-17, it’s the little details that make the difference. Wright tells me that what I refer to as a more tapered stern is called tumblehome in naval architecture, and it’s what gives the LS-17 more of a runabout feel, versus the traditional utility boat that inspired it. “This boat has a modern running surface. A modified “V,” which gives it a more comfortable, modern ride. It also allows [it] to run in more sea states, should the weather turn bad. The stem angle also has more rake versus the traditional bow. These aesthetic differences add up to a boat that still fosters that nostalgic pull, but with a slightly leaner and sexier appeal. It’s always a fine line, though. It can be overdone and lose the traditionalist/nostalgia. I think, of course, I would, that we really struck that balance with this boat,” says Wright. A large open cockpit and 4-stroke outboard motors afford passengers a quiet, comfortable ride and plenty of room for coolers, skis, paddles and fishing gear. Transom tow eyes allow for pulling a recreational skier or a couple of tubes. The LS-17 provides another unique opportunity to its owners. Buyers who purchase their boat before the close of the school year have an open door policy to see their boat essentially being born. They are welcome to visit the school and observe the next generation of boat builders carefully craft the boat they will eventually call their

ls-17

own. There’s even the possibility of choosing a custom color. The Landing School was founded in 1978 as a wooden boat building school, but has since expanded to include composites, yacht design and marine systems. Since its inception, students of The Landing School have built more than 300 boats—all of which have been sold and most of which are still in use. What sets their program apart is that it’s the first school of its type to be accredited and offer diplomas and associate degree programs in a year-round curriculum, as opposed to two to threeweek classes at other boat schools. Students have ranged in age from 18 to 63 and hailed from 41 states and 10 countries, which makes for a diverse student body. Most of the faculty are alumni, so there’s a a deep sense of tradition to be found there. The school’s president, Richard Schuhmann, was a student in the ‘80s.

Wright attended The Landing School and graduated in 2005 with a diploma in Yacht Design. With regard to how the process for designing a lake utility boat differs, he points out that they were given a target, in this case it was Ken’s “camp boat.” Wright recalls that when Ken described that boat, “you couldn’t help but feel the pull.” He also notes that, whether they’re designing a yacht or a lake boat or a seafaring flyfisher, they always have the client’s vision in mind. An essential part of the design process is tapping into the emotions and memories that help people identify with that boat. “When we feel they have a good understanding of the product, we start drawing. Spirit of tradition is the term we use to describe such boats,” says Wright. R For more information on the LS-17 and other boats they build, visit www.landschool.edu/shop/boats.html or call 207.985.7976.

lakelivingmaine.com

Raise the Curtain! by leigh macmillen hayes

anet Ver Planck, current president of Lake Region Community Theatre knows first hand that producing a play is a shared enterprise. From actors and actresses, to those who work behind the scenes, local businesses that purchase ads and provide sponsorships, and the audience who attends, everyone plays a role. At the same time, Janet wishes more people would participate in this endeavor. She herself, had never dabbled in theatre until she enrolled in an adult education class at Lake Region High School in the 1990s. At that time, participants paid to take the course and be part of the show. “It was fun,” says Janet. “I got to sing and dance and put on costumes.” In the mid-90s, the theater class ended and Lake Region Community Theatre formed as a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Their first show was Our Town, which they presented at the Casco Grange. Commenting on the show in a November 1996 editorial for The Bridgton News, Michael T. Corrigan, wrote “Our Town was the perfect first production for a revitalized Lake Region Community Theatre . . . The audience obviously appreciated the performance, and was pleased that LRCT had made it all the way back; just as clearly, the community theatre folks appreciated the audience’s appreciation . . . It would be pointless (as well as impossible) to rate the LRCT against all the other community theaters in the country, but there is no doubt that ours is a particularly fine little theatre, where performers ranging

16 lakelivingmaine.com

from the good amateur to the astonishingly professional can be seen in any one production.” His words continue to hold true. Since the theatre group organized, they’ve produced thirty-two dramas and musicals, two cabarets and two talent shows under the direction of a variety of directors. Jerry Walker, a director from Standish, enjoys the fact that the casts are made up of some people with lots of experience and others with little. He’s quick to note that that is what community theater is all about. Broadway actress Chelsea Williams, who grew up in Windham and is currently touring the country as Sophie in the musical Mamma Mia! got her

Whether you are a writer or an actor or a stage manager, you are trying to express the complications of life through a shared enterprise. That’s what theatre was, always. And live performance shares that with an audience in a specific compact: the play is unfinished unless it has an audience, and they are as important as everyone else.

lee hall

start on stage in LRCT’s 2007 production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Often times, a show is a family affair. Jerry has directed his son, Eric, and his family several times. Brian Harris of Casco likes to act, while his father, Greg, has built some of the sets. Tamara Douglas of Bridgton was pulled back to the stage by her daughter, Sarah. Her eyes sparkle as she says, “It’s great any time I can do something with my kids.” For the Ridlon family of Casco, it’s a similar situation. While mom, Joanne, and daughters, Corban and Kendyl, have performed in shows, their father, Patrick, has worked behind the scenes. “All four of us in the same play at the same time,” says Joanne. “It’s the whole family together. And I appreciate the teens and adults who are great role models for our children.” One of the challenges for LRCT is that it doesn’t have a home stage. Consequently, performances have occurred at different venues in the area including Lake Region High School, Bridgton Academy, The Magic Lantern and Deertrees Theatre. In December 2005, they took The Old Peabody Pew on the road, producing the Christmasthemed play at several churches. Another challenge directly linked to not having a home is the lack of storage and set-building space. Again, community members have been known to come to the rescue, offering their garages and barns. Janet would ultimately like to find one spot where they could safely keep everything, but

for now, set pieces and props are stored at several locations. While raising the curtain on a live performance is the goal, it often means the group must scrimp to stay afloat. Sometimes they hover precariously close to the edge of the stage and don’t always break even. All money raised from ticket sales is funneled back into the many expenses, e.g. rent, costumes, salaries, pit band, building materials, royalties. “Royalties kill us,” says Janet. “The Addams Family, this summer’s show, costs close to $5,000.” She’s thankful that last year they were able to use a grant from a trust fund to help pay for Annie royalty fees, which in turn, did well and helped pay for the royalties of The Addams Family. Behind the scenes, a creative crew works enthusiastically to keep the costs as low as possible. Michelle Brenner of Casco is LRCT’s costume designer. Janet calls her “The Queen of the Thrift Shops,” as she constantly seeks deals. With her sewing talents, Michelle has been known to magically transform curtains, table clothes and napkins into outfits. Set pieces are recycled as much as possible and Hancock Lumber’s Bargain Barn and dump stores are frequented for just the right items that can be transformed into scenery. For props, the group begs and borrows. It takes months to choose a show, pay for royalties, pull the production team together, run auditions and rehearsals, sell program ads and perform all the other tasks necessary to raise the curtain. “I love the final piece,” says Janet. “I’m proud of what we do. Each person involved in a performance puts the “community” into Lake Region Community Theatre. I encourage you to think about what you can to support this group. Awaken your inner actor. Share your technical talents or people skills. Buy a ticket and attend a production. Purchase an ad or provide a sponsorship. Become part of the definition of “community” so Lake Region Community Theatre can continue to keep this shared enterprise alive. R FMI: www.lrctme.org.

Pick-Your-Own Strawberries, Blueberries, Apples & Vegetables Call Ahead for What’s In Season Farmstand Open 7 Days 9am-6pm Farm Fresh Produce & Brick Oven Baked Goods 803 Waterford Road (between Routes 37 & 93) Sweden, ME 04040 (207) 647-9419

wic lakelivingmaine.com

Water, Water Everywhere? by laurie lamountain

’ve been thinking about writing a piece on water for a while now. After all, this is Lake Living, and what are lakes but bodies of water? So while I was preparing for an interview on The Landing School in Arundel, Maine, and came across a link to a TED talk given by the school’s president, Richard Schuhmann, it was the proverbial kick in the pants I needed. The title of his talk was “The Politics of Water.” I’m not one to ignore obvious connections. “I can go for weeks without eating, but after about three days without water I begin to die,” states Schuhmann. “So it’s no wonder that something of such critical importance, when it’s in limited supply and has to be shared, can become a point of contention.” Here in Maine, we are lulled into a perceived belief that we live in a region where water is in unlimited supply. In fact, if you look closely at the map of the United States that Shuhmann uses in his talk to identify areas of imminent drought in this country, Maine is one of the few states that appears unaffected. I emphasize that word because the world is changing rapidly. We need to realize that just because it seems that water is a limitless, renewable resource here in Maine, it doesn’t mean we should devalue it, waste it or give it away . . . and it doesn’t mean it will always be abundant. Whether or not you believe in climate change, Schuhmann makes a very good point when he states that “civilizations on the rise meet challenges squarely, with creativity,

18 lakelivingmaine.com

with innovation and with bold, brave action. Civilizations in decline meet these types of challenges with fear and denial.” Since fear is usually a late-game reaction, it’s most likely denial that keeps us quiet about our water here in Maine. We simply don’t want for it. It’s for that reason that we watch in relative silence as our water is pulled out of our aquifers, pumped into tanker trucks that hold thousands of gallons each, and transported over our very tired roads to eventually be sold in plastic bottles at a cost that is less per gallon than gasoline. To blame bottled water companies for pumping all this water and making a very tidy profit on a public resource is incomplete. Large-scale agriculture and even a booming craft beer industry are also responsible for hefty consumption. The blame also lies with us as consumers and for not being more informed and activated citizens. As someone I know is fond of saying, it’s not rocket surgery. Science and common sense support the fact that if you constantly draw from a source that is naturally replenished, at a rate that is far greater than nature can keep pace with, you have created an imbalance. In 2007, just prior to drafting a bill pertaining to bulk water extraction, James Wilfong gave historical context to the issue of water as a public resource in Maine in an essay posted at onthecommons.org: “Since colonial days, Maine courts have held that surface waters of ten acres or more (‘Great Ponds’) and tidal rivers fall under what is

called the ‘public trust.’ This means that ultimate ownership resides in the people of the state; and that the government has a consequent duty to protect these for future generations. Groundwater, by contrast, has been relegated to the ‘absolute dominion’ rule. If there is water under your land, you can pump all you want regardless of the impact upon anyone else.” While this seems absurdly shortsighted by today’s standards, consider the fact that when the rule of absolute dominion was made, no one could have conceived of our seemingly unslakable thirst for bottled water or the ability to pull it out of the ground at such a voluminous rate. It’s by consequence that we’ve come to understand the intimate relationship between surface watersheds and the groundwater beneath our feet. In 2007, Wilfong saw his bill passed under the auspices of the Conservation and Natural Resources Committee of the Legislature, and while amendments hampered its authority to place groundwater in the public trust, it did succeed in regulating largescale, commercial water extraction. Placed in the Natural Resources Protection Act, the law now requires a publicly available environmental impact study for any large extraction that provides monitoring, review and evaluation of the data collected, as well as public protection measures. Essentially, what this law does is erode the rule of absolute dominion and place power that wasn’t there before into the hands of the public.

“The question now is control. In Maine, we are in the fight of our lives – for our water resource, our communities, and our Maine way of life. In my view, we don’t have the time or resources to fight a losing battle over whether water will be bought and sold, because it already is,” states Wilfong in an essay posted at onthecommons.org. We have the power to get more involved on a legislative level to ensure that even stricter laws are imposed on bulk water extraction. And just as it became unfashionable to wear fur, we have the power to make it unfashionable to consume commercially bottled water. The bottled water industry isn’t about to do it. In a press release issued by the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) in December of 2014, they were happy to quote projections provided by the managing director of research for the Beverage Marketing Corporation, Gary Hemphill, at the IBWA Annual Business Conference in November: “While other beverages struggle to gain or maintain market share, bottled water is expected to have a 7.4 percent increase in 2014 – that equates to 10.9 billion gallons,” said Hemphill. “Every segment of the bottled water industry is growing and we consider bottled water to be the most successful mass-market beverage category in the U.S.,” he added. “In fact, single serve PET plastic bottled water outperformed all other beverage categories, posting an increase of 8.4 percent.” Sales of bottled water in 2014 are expected to grow to $13 billion, an increase of 6.1 percent from 2013, according to the report∆30. The flip side of this, according to a new Vital Signs Update from the Worldwatch Institute, is that while the world’s fastestgrowing beverage is a boon to the bottled water industry, it is “a bust for the environment and for the more than 1 billion

people worldwide who lack access to clean drinking water. Excessive withdrawal of natural mineral or spring water to produce bottled water has threatened local streams and groundwater, and the product consumes significant amounts of energy in production and shipping. Millions of tons of oil-derived plastics, mostly polyethylene terephthalate (PET), are used to make the water bottles, most of which are not recycled. Each year, about 2 million tons of PET bottles end up in landfills in the United States; in 2005, the national recycling rate for PET was only 23.1 percent, far below the 39.7 percent rate achieved a decade earlier.” If you don’t believe these statistics regarding PET bottles could be accurate, take a canoe ride on the Saco River in late August. At the same time, spokespersons from the bottled water industry are calling attention to their environmental commitment to using less plastic in their bottling process—the cap is half as tall. In the spirit of full disclosure, I want to add that my drilled well was installed at the complete expense of Poland Spring/ Nestlé Waters North America. For those of you who may not know it, Nestlé Waters owns 72 brands of bottled water, including Poland Spring, in 38 countries and is a subsidiary of Switzerland-based Nestlé, the largest food company in the world. I had managed for several years with a 15’ dug well, but when Nestlé Waters North America purchased the land abutting mine in 2005, I was concerned for its future. When I voiced my concerns to the senior natural resource manager for NWNA, he politely asked me what they could do to allay my fears. Did I want a drilled well? I politely declined. Then I thought about it and I talked with friends and family, who encouraged me to take the well be-

fore I needed it. In the end, I did just that. Since then, Woodward & Curran, a contractor for PS/NW, has monitored my old dug well on a regular basis. It is no longer in use, but is still considered an indicator of groundwater level fluctuations. Also by the way of disclosure, I want to point out that Poland Spring advertised in Lake Living several years ago. While that may seem in contradiction to what I’m now saying, I can only offer that I’ve since taken the opportunity to align my business decisions with my conscience. The issue of water is not a simple one, on either a local or global level. As well as sucking down bottled water when we could save money and the environment by installing a filter on our faucet and buying a reusable water bottle to catch it, we think nothing in this country of watering our lawns and flushing our bodily excretions with drinking water, while a huge percentage of the world has little or no access to clean drinking water. It’s a problem that is not going to go away. It’s a problem that is only going to get bigger. And it’s a problem we all need to act on (see below). A friend told me she times her rowing sessions on Moose Pond according to the number of Poland Spring trucks that pass every 15 minutes along Route 302. My mother lives right on Route 302 and the only thing that makes her crankier than those Harley motorcycle riders is the number of trucks that rumble past her little house at all hours of the day and night. She started keeping a log and tells me about it . . . often. She also told me I should write an article to let people know how serious an issue this is so that maybe they’ll do something about it. I always (eventually) do what my mother says. I hope you will be encouraged to listen to her as well, since she’s often right. R

Wash your clothes in cold water instead of hot. Washing machines produce over 500 pounds of CO2 a year when run on hot water. Your clothes will be just as clean and may even last longer when laundered in cold water.* Only wash full loads of laundry. Thirty-six percent of Americans drink bottled water every day, compared to 72% of Germans and 56% of Mexicans. Japanese (21%), Australians (19%), and British (16%) are the least likely to drink bottled water daily.*

Run your dishwasher only when it’s full. Install a filter on your faucet and stop buying bottled water. Buy a reusable metal or glass water bottle and keep it handy. Resist the urge to water your lawn for hours. Better yet, turn your lawn into a garden with native flowers and shrubs. Not only will it make watering unnecessary, it will add an ornamental aspect to your property. Instead of using a sprinkler to water the garden, hand water plants from a bucket.

You Can Make A Difference While these tips may seem small, if everyone did them it would add up to a BIG difference. If you haven’t already done it, install low flow toilets. When brushing your teeth, don’t run the tap water until you’re ready to spit. Shave your eight-minute shower to five minutes for a savings of 513 pounds of CO2 per year.* And you probably don’t need to shower daily. It will save your skin, especially in winter.

*From Marfe’s Ferguson Delano’s book, Earth in the Hot Seat published by National Geographic in 2009

lakelivingmaine.com

Photo by photosbyrowley.com

Cornish, Maine

“. . . well seasoned Cornish is salted with architectural gems and peppered with antiques and crafts shops.” —Hilary Nangle Maine Travel Maven

20 lakelivingmaine.com

lakelivingmaine.com

summer calendar june

19, 20 & 21 Lake Region Community Theater presents The Addams Family, Lake Region High School, Rt. 302, Naples. 7:30 pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm Sunday, FMI: www.lrctme.org 20 Season Open Afternoon at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison, with Erica Brown & The Bluegrass Connection at 7 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 20 Fluke Happening at Denmark Arts Center Falmouth Library Ukulele Society (FLUKES) performance. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 21 Summer Solstice Family Picnic at Hacker’s Hill in Casco. Celebrate summer’s arrival with Loon Echo Land Trust. 12 pm, FMI: www. LELT.org or 207-647-4352 23 Quilts and Tea, Opening of the Quilt exhibit at Narramissic. 3 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www. bridgtonhistory.org 25 Sawyer Brook Picnic Explore Holt Pond Preserve with LEA. 9 am, Pre-registration required: 207647-8580 or mary@leamaine.org 26, 27, & 28 Lake Region Community Theater presents The Addams Family, Lake Region High School, Rt. 302, Naples. 7:30pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm Sunday, FMI: www.lrctme.org 26 Nite Owl Club Cabaret at Denmark Arts Center 9 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 27 The Raymond Garden Tour Nine stunning gardens in historic areas. Tour starts at the Raymond Village Library. Tickets: $15 in advance on-line. $20 day of tour. 9 am-3 pm, FMI: 207-655-4283 or raymondvillagelibrary.org 27 KinderKonzert with DaPonte String Quartet at Denmark Arts Center A fun, classical concert for kids aged 5+. 3 pm, FMI: 207-4522412 or denmarkarts.org 27 Organicism at Denmark Arts Center Daponte String Quartet performs Mendelssohn, Stravinsky and Schumann. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 30 Rufus Porter Museum Opening Day (Museum will be open Tues.Sat. 12-4:00 pm thru 10/10) FMI: www.rufusportermuseum.org

july

2 Remember in Bridgton at

Bridgton Community Center, 10 am, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www. bridgtonhistory.org 2 The Gothard Sisters at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison. Awardwinning Celtic music and dance. 7:30pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org

22 lakelivingmaine.com

2 & 3 One-Act Plays at Denmark

Arts Center, directed by Harry Corthell and Jamie Hook. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 3 Orchid Walk at Holt Pond with Mary Jewett & Ursula Duvé 9 am, Pre-registration required: 207-6478580 or mary@leamaine.org 3 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents The Reluctant Dragon This charming adaptation of a classic tale tells of a boy and a poetry-loving dragon. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 3 Paradise Wasted Gallery Opening with Artist Joanne Gravelin at Denmark Arts Center 5-7 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 3 Pre-Race Spaghetti Feast at Stevens Brook Elementary School, Bridgton, 5-7 pm. 4 39th Annual Bridgton 4 on the Fourth Road Race begins 8 am at Main St. & Rt. 117. FMI or to register: www. fouronthefourth.com 5 Harold & Maude at the Denmark Arts Center The DAC summer film series premiere. Postscreening discussion led by Maine Death-with-Dignity activist Valery Lovelace 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-4522412 or denmarkarts.org 7 Ropes and Knots family event at Narramissic 3 pm, FMI: 207-6473699 or www.bridgtonhistory.org 7 In The Blood at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison A film that takes a virtual journey into the lives of turn-of-the century Maine lumbermen. 7:30pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 8 Mind Control in the Living Dead of the Insect World with Don Bennett at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Lovell. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www. gllt.org 9 Greater Lovell Land Trust Insect Walk John A. Segur Wildlife Refuge, Lovell 9-11:30am, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org

9 A Year in the Life of Maine

Loons with Susan Gallo, Maine Lakes Science Center, Bridgton. 6:30 pm, Pre-registration required: 207-647-8580 or mary@leamaine. org 9 New England’s Culture: Lecture by Colin Woodard at Narramissic 7 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www. bridgtonhistory.org 9 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents Lettice & Lovage, a comedic play about a tour guide who loves to embellish history and a fact conscious official at the Trust. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 10 Acquatic Insect Exploration of Holt Pond with Naturalist Mary Jewett 9 am, Pre-registration required: 207-647-8580 or mary@ leamaine.org 10 Books Alive Series! Rufus Porter Museum partnership with Bridgton Public Library 10:30 am, FMI: visit www. rufusportermuseum.org 10 The Bald Eagle: Our ComeBack Bird, Bonny Boatman at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library 1 pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www. gllt.org 10 Susie Pepper & Mixology present A Walk Down Broadway at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 10 Nite Owl Club Cabaret at Denmark Arts Center 9 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 10-12 Harrison Old Home Days Pancake breakfast, fireworks, parade, BBQ and lobster feed, live entertainment 11 Rufus Porter Museum Free Admission for Bridgton Residents FMI: visit www. rufusportermuseum.org 11 Bridgton Public Library Book Sale On the Courtyard, Main Street, Bridgton. (Rain date 7/18) 1-6 pm, FMI: 207-647-2472

11 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents The Reluctant Dragon (See play description under 7/3.) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 11 Jesus Christ Superstar with Tophat Toy Theater at Denmark Arts Center The classic 1970 rock opera staged in high Victorian ToyTheater style. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 11 & 12 36th Annual Chickadee Quilt Show Stevens Brook Elementary School, Bridgton. Chinese Auction, workshops and raffles. 10 am-4 pm, FMI: chickadeequilters@gmail.com 12 16th Annual Lovell Historical Society Antique Sale & Auction Kimball-Stanford House, Lovell. 10 am-3 pm, FMI: 207-925-3234 or lovellhistoricalsociety@gmail. com 12 Song of the Sea at Denmark Arts Center A radiant film rendition of the classic Irish tale of the mythological Selkie. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 14 Quarry walk and lecture on stone, Narramissic. 2 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www. bridgtonhistory.org 14 Sebago Long Lake Music Festival at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison. 7:30 pm, Visit http:// sllmf.org for concert details. 14 Maine Lake Science Center, Dr. Bridie McGreavy at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 15 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents The Reluctant Dragon (See play description under 7/3.) 11:30 am, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 16 Greater Lovell Land Trust Walk along Scenic Ron’s Loop at Back Pond Preserve, N. Waterford 9-11:30 am, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 16 Geology of the Lakes Region at Maine Lakes Science Center, Bridgton. 6:30 pm, Pre-registration required: 207-647-8580 or mary@ leamaine.org 16 Magic Lantern Show, Bridgton in the early 20th century, Gibbs Museum 7 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www.bridgtonhistory.org 16 The Best of Ida at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison Ida LeClair (Susan Poulin) shares her inimitable and uproarious perspective on life. 7:30pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 17 Geology Walk at Maine Lakes Science Center, Bridgton. 9 am, Preregistration required: 207-647-8580 or mary@leamaine.org 17 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents Lettice & Lovage (See play description under 7/9) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org

17 & 18 Sebago Days, Sebago 17 & 19 Waterford World’s Fair

FMI: www.waterfordworldsfair.org 18 The Bridgton Art Guild presents the 11th Annual Art in the Park at Shorey Park in Bridgton (Rain date 7/19). 9 am-4 pm, FMI: 207-647-2787 or gallery302.info 18 How to Make Music Out of Anything workshop with Roochie Toochie at the Denmark Arts Center 2-5 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 18 Tin Pan Alley Daze with Roochie Toochie and the Ragtime Shepherd Kings at Denmark Arts Center 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-4522412 or denmarkarts.org 18 PORTopera presents Leonard Bernstein’s Trouble in Tahiti at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 18 Lovell Old Home Days & 5K Run 19 Paulette at Denmark Arts Center Filmed in French with English subtitles. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 20 Camp Encore/Coda Benefit Concert for Lakes Environmental Association, Deertrees Theatre, Harrison 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-5836747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 21 Greater Lovell Land Trust Mushroom Walk Flat Hill, Heald Pond Road, Lovell 9:30am-noon, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 21 Quilts and Tea, Narramissic 3 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www.bridgtonhistory.org

21 Sebago Long Lake Music

Festival at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison. 7:30pm, Visit http:// sllmf.org for concert details. 21 Fantastic Fungi I Have Loved and Known, Dr. Rick Van de Poll at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library 7:30pm, FMI: 207-9251056 or www.gllt.org

22 Exploring Our Natural World Through Poetry with Judy Steinbergh at Hewnoaks Artist Colony 10am-noon, Pre-register by e-mailing lmachayes@gmail.com or call the GLLT office at 207-925-1056. 22-25 & 8/1 Curious Arts Series at Rufus Porter Museum The new and improved Cultural Heritage Series includes classic favorites and new classes. FMI or to register: 207-647-2828 or www. rufusportermuseum.org 23 Monitoring Maine’s Great Blue Heron with Danielle D’Auria, Maine Lakes Science Center, Bridgton. 10 am, Pre-registration required: 207647-8580 or mary@leamaine.org 23 Sand Casting: Family event, Narramissic 3 pm, FMI: 207-6473699 or www.bridgtonhistory.org 23 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents The Reluctant Dragon (See play description under 7/3.) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org

23 -25 Casco Days, Casco 24 Books Alive Series! Rufus

Porter Museum partnership with Bridgton Public Library 10:30 am, FMI: visit www. rufusportermuseum.org

24 Dragonflies with Naturalist Mary Jewett at Holt Pond in South Bridgton. Pre-registration required. 1 pm, FMI: 207-647-8580 or mary@leamaine.org 24 Work of the Hand Gallery Opening with artist David Etsey at Denmark Arts Center 5-7 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 24 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents Rounding Third, a quirky comedy about two little league coaches leading up to the team playoffs. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 24 Nite Owl Club Cabaret at Denmark Arts Center 9 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 24 & 25 Reasons for Moving, directed by Hio Ridge Dance, at Denmark Arts Center A dazzling night of dancing with local stars. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 25 Figure Drawing Workshop with Artist David Estey at Denmark Arts Center 10 am-2 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 25 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents Lettice & Lovage (Play description under 7/9) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 26 7:30 pm,Fiddlesticks at the Denmark Arts Center Filmed in German with English subtitles. FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 27 Bridgton Poetry, Narramissic 7 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www. bridgtonhistory.org 28 Renowned Maine oral historian Jo Radner performs Yankee Ingenuity to celebrate the the newly opened and restored Centennial Hall. FMI: www. denmarkhistoricalsociety.org

30 Greater Lovell Land Trust Walk: Old Mills PLUS Ferns and Other Spore-Bearing Plants Heald/ Bradley Preserve, Lovell 10amnoon, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 30 The Stanfields in Concert at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison A musical maelstrom of rock ‘n’ roll, Celtic and bluegrass. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 31 The Uncommon Common Loon with Bonny Boatman at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library 1 pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 31 Olde Tyme Music with Fred and Deb at Narramissic 6 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www. bridgtonhistory.org 31 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents Rounding Third (Play description under 7/24) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org

august 1 10th Annual 20-Mile Tour de

Lovell Bike Race 8 am, www.bikereg.com 1 Celebration of People, Place and Nature Join Greater Lovell Land Trust at the Heald/Bradley Ponds Reserve for a family fun day. 11am, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 1 22nd Annual Antique Wooden Boat Show on the Causeway, Naples. www. mountainviewwoodies.org 1 Maine State Championship Rowing Regatta, Highland Lake, Bridgton. 5,000 meter stake and 1,000 meter sprint. FMI: www. rowmaine.org 1 THE DAM JAM!!!!! Denmark Arts Center’s 3rd Annual Music Festival takes place in Bicentennial Park. 2:30-11 pm, FMI: 207-4522412 or denmarkarts.org 1 The Downeasters at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison A 55-manstrong a cappella chorus. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 1 & 2 Back to the Past, Scribner’s Mills, Harrison. Step back in time at this historic 19thcentury sawmill and homestead

celebration. 10 am-4 pm, www. scribnersmill.org 2 Deertrees New Repertory Company performs extracts of plays for Deertrees 80th Anniversary Season. 6:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 4 Greater Lovell Land Trust Walk From Sabattus Road to Slab City 10 am-12:30 pm, FMI: 207-9251056 or www.gllt.org 4 Caroline Grimm presents Enoch Perley at Narramissic 7 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www.bridgtonhistory.org

4 Sebago Long Lake Music Festival at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison. 7:30 pm, Visit http:// sllmf.org for concert details. 5 Crows and Corvids, Bonny Boatman at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 5 Dallahan at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison An exciting montage of Scottish, Irish and Hungarian music. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-5836747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 6 Kids Fun Day with LEA at Maine Lakes Science Center 9 am, Pre-registration required: 207-6478580 or mary@leamaine.org 6 Open Mic Night at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 6 Greater Lovell Land Trust Walk: Our Amazing Mammals Flat Hill, Lovell 9am-noon, FMI: 207-9251056 or www.gllt.org 7 Books Alive Series! Rufus Porter Museum partnership with Bridgton Public Library 10:30 am, FMI: visit www.rufusportermuseum.org 7 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents Lettice & Lovage (See play description under 7/9) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 7 Nite Owl Club Cabaret at Denmark Arts Center 9 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 7 & 8 Gallery 302 in Bridgton presents Art in Bloom Floral arrangements by Lakeside Garden Club FMI:www.gallery302.com continued on page 32

28 Sebago Long Lake Music

Festival at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison. 7:30 pm, Visit http:// sllmf.org for concert details. 29 The Legendary John Fox, hosted by Brian Fox and Heidi Dikeman at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org

lakelivingmaine.com

Craft Works by laurie lamountain

efore it was Craftworks, it was an indoor flea market for a year, and before that it was a church. Owner Judith Evergreen admits that when she acquired the building on Main Street in downtown Bridgton in the late ‘70s, it was as a reluctant and accidental retailer. Her partner at the time was determined to start a small business, but she didn’t quite share his enthusiasm. “The only reason I became interested was the building. Preserving and reusing it was the kind of project that challenges and interests me,” says Evergreen. back then and still has customers who come According to Evergreen, the transition in looking for them. from Catholic church to the Bridgton Somewhere around the middle of that first Flea Market had not been an aesthetidecade, Evergreen became frustrated in her cally favorable one for the building. Winattempts to source quality, natural fiber clothdow openings where the church had ing, so she started attending major clothing removed the stained glass were boarded shows as a buyer, steering Craftworks from up with plywood, and rows of fluoits original intent toward the store it is today. rescent lights hung over long tables. During its second decade, books, home“I think you had to be an artist to see it ware and decor were introduced and the as a good thing. The very first thing I did business became a year-round venture. For was replace the plywood with plate glass.” several years, a smaller building next to the That was forty years ago and the trajecchurch served as the winter home to a contory of Craftworks has been upward ever densed version of Craftworks that was mostsince. During her first decade as owner, ly homeware and decor, until a major fire Evergreen was teaching pottery at the same destroyed it in 2007. At that point, Evergreen time she was pursing a graduate degree in invested in significant upgrades to the church, fine arts from Rutgers University, so Craftincluding a new heating system and insulaworks was only open from Memorial Day tion, so that it could function as a perennial until September. The focus of the store was space and house everything under one roof. on American-made crafts and craft supplies, Once the buildings were combined, with everything from handmade baskets to it took a while to get just the right merwool for weaving and tools for ceramists. chandise mix, but Evergreen’s eye for She recalls that she also sold a lot of beads

24 lakelivingmaine.com

photo courtest of bridgton historical society

arrangement and color is excellent, as is further evident in the beautifully landscaped grounds surrounding Craftworks. She’s also committed to keeping things interesting for her customers by transitioning merchandise across the seasons. Clothing, accessories and jewelry are artfully displayed throughout the front half of the store. Evergreen hasn’t wavered from her original intention of offering quality, natural fiber clothing, although she points out that it’s become more challenging to find all natural, domestically produced lines that are well made. She recounts a line of sweaters she purchased that had great styling but didn’t hold up in the wash. “They were beautifully designed sweaters but they were not well made. I feel like I let my customers down with those sweaters.” Craftworks customers are an interesting mix. Evergreen recalls one day when they sold an identical dress to somebody who was about seventeen and someone who was seventy. The one thing they have in common is that they all expect to find qual-

ity in the clothing they buy at Craftworks. “Since it’s become one store, it’s a refinement of everything that’s going on. As I’m buying, I’m putting the store together in my mind,” says Evergreen. Books on gardening and birding are thoughtfully arranged among the garden tools and ornaments. Cookbooks are scattered throughout the kitchen wares and food offerings. Cocktail napkins with humorous messages are arrayed near the wines. Ceramics and woodenware are often crafted by local artisans. Furniture, lamps and textiles are for sale but, at the same time, add to the store’s allure. There’s a truly diverse range of offerings but somehow it flows as a whole. “I feel like I’ve become a better editor as a buyer. I still totally get into the buying process because it is an editing process. I came to Craftworks with a certain set of skills, but I’ve learned everything on the job. I’ve done this for a long time and I’m good at what I do, but I also feel it’s time to move on.”

he year was 1870 and the members of the First Universalist Society, which had been meeting elsewhere in town since 1839, voted to erect a church. Situated on Lot 7, Range 13, the “church lot” as it is referred to in the deed, begins “at the corner of the land formerly owned by Benj. Chase on the southerly side of the road leading from the center village in said Bridgton to Long Pond, thence running south thirty-two and one half degrees west, as the stone wall ran, about six (6) rods; thence north fifty-four degrees west about six (6) rods to land formerly occupied by Abner Smith; thence north thirty-two and one half degrees east six (6) rods to the road aforesaid; thence by said road to the point of beginning as is the same conveyed to the pew owners of the above Society by Artemus Bridgham.” In a September 9, 1870 issue of The Bridgton News, a short clip states that the church would be dedicated on September 14 and Mr. McKenney would be ordained the following day. Reverend McKenney ministered weekly to the group during a late morning service, immediately followed by Sabbath School and topped off with an evening prayer and conference meeting. Pews were priced according to their placement to the pulpit and many of the original owners included town leaders. Reverend McKenney’s initial pastorship lasted for three years. Others fol-

The Church Lot by leigh macmillen hayes

lowed in his shoes while he moved on to political posts around the country. In 1875, the building was raised to add a foundation and basement. The church membership experienced highs and lows during its 53 year history. Toward the end, McKenney returned to Bridgton to set up a business, but also served as pastor from time to time until his death in 1922. Experiencing a decrease in numbers and unable to provide upkeep, parishioners voted to closed the doors on October 1, 1923, with one stipulation as stated in

Which is where, after nearly four decades, Evergreen finds herself . . . ready to move on. Her ideal exit would be to sell the building to someone with a similar vision, who would continue Craftworks, or some version of it, as an independent retailer. She’s realistic, though, and knows that not everyone would be willing to invest the time and effort it takes to run Craftworks as a year-round business. Despite that, she feels good about where the store is at today. “The building is very special and could be used for other purposes. Retail or restaurant, beyond that I’m not sure.” She muses a moment and adds, “Anyone who has been there has been successful. The Catholic congregation left because they outgrew it. I do think there is some karmic stuff with buildings sometimes.” R If you have an interest in creating your own successful karmic endeavor in this old church, call Eileen Rounds at Chalmers Realty (207-838-0000 or 207-803-2650).

Bridgton, Maine 1768-1994: “Members sadly voted to disband and turn over the physical properties to the State Universalist Society with the stipulation that it not be sold to the small Catholic group in town.” Curiously, Joseph Sylvester of Portland, purchased the building and property with the proposed intention of opening a business, but within months he transferred the deed to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Maine. The building was in great need of repair and Catholic membership was low, so for a while it served as a seasonal parish. Eventually the numbers swelled and some parishioners recall the need to arrive early for Mass if you wanted a seat, otherwise it was standing room only; often, those who were tardy listened to the sermon from the front steps. In 1972, the congregation moved to their current location on South High Street. Sally and Francis Nataluck placed the highest bid on the Main Street property, and some people recall that they intended to open a teen center. Instead, Dominic Cardosi, who was Mr. Nataluck’s stepfather and owner of the Bridgton Trading Post on the corner of Route 117 and Lower Main Street, ran the Bridgton Flea Market from this location. In the mid-70s, the building and lot was sold to Judith Evergreen, who rescued this historic house of worship and converted it into Craftworks. R lakelivingmaine.com

summer bookshelf Book Reviews from the Owners & Staff of Bridgton Books

justin’s list We have been busy painting and organizing the bookshop over the winter. There have been many changes, including new card and gift lines. Rest assured, though, we will always be first and foremost a bookstore, where you can browse and maybe find a book or two you weren’t looking for. A computer search algorithm is no substitute for a real bookshop, with a broad but refined selection and knowledgeable staff. Here are some of our recent treasures. World War II continues to provide a fertile breeding ground for wonderful novels, and these three really stood out for me. First, All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr has to be our store’s number one favorite since the last write-up. Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner, a German boy who is indoctrinated into the SS, have a connection unbeknownst to them. When so much evil abounds, can goodness prevail? This was a National Book Finalist that should have won. If you haven’t taken the plunge in hardcover, it comes out in paperback this June. Australian POWs are being worked and starved to death by their Japanese captors in The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan. With brutally vivid depictions of disease and death, this is not for the faint of heart. Flanagan also changes the narrative from the Australians to the Japanese guards, offering a unique perspective a reader is rarely given. Finally, Kristen Hannah’s new novel, The Nightingale, is just out and kept me on the edge of my seat. Two French sisters do what they can to survive during the German occupation. Both stand up to Nazis, but each in her own way. If Bill Bryson had hiked the Incan roads and ruins of Peru instead of the Appalachian Trail, he could have written Mark Adams superb travelogue Turn Right at Machu Picchu. Adams, a NYC type, has never hiked a day in his life when he sets off to follow the footsteps of fabled explorer Hiram Bingham around Peru. Bingham’s claim to fame was to rediscover Machu Picchu in 1911, although the locals were well aware of its existence and even grazed their livestock on the grounds. Adams is fortunate to employ John Lievers as his guide, an authority on

26 lakelivingmaine.com

the region and its history. They venture far off the usual tourist routes in this wonderful armchair travel book. Full of witty one-liners and interesting side stories, this book is both entertaining and informative. Fourth of July Creek by Smith Henderson is a hard-hitting American novel ripped right from today’s headlines. Pete Snow is a family service worker in Montana. He is committed to helping others, and is good at what he does. He and his family, however, have major flaws and issues of their own. When Pete finds an emaciated mountain boy wandering through town, he investigates. Benjamin Pearl and his father, Jeremiah, are survivalists who don’t want any help, but Pete persists, and things become more complicated with both his job and his family. This is a wonderful, thought-provoking novel introducing a strong new literary talent. When people think of the Sioux, Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse usually come to mind. But Red Cloud was arguably a greater chief and deserves his due as both a leader and tactician. The only American Indian to defeat the United States in a war, Red Cloud’s story is chronicled by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin in their biography, The Heart of Everything That Is. This is not another Custer and Little Big Horn book about which so much has been written, but encompasses the decades before and leading up to that battle. Any who liked Empire of the Summer Moon would love this. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide by the Turks. Although more than a million Armenians

were killed, little has been written on the subject compared to the Holocaust. Aline Ohanesian brings this event and its repercussions to light in her beautifully written novel, Orhan’s Inheritance. Upon the death of his grandfather, Orhan learns the family home is bequeathed to an unknown woman. Unravel the mystery layer by layer, as the story goes back and forth between past and present. If you liked The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, this is a must read.

Sue’s Selections Garth Stein, author of The Art of Racing in the Rain, has written another captivating novel, A Sudden Light. This story is full of family secrets, generations of restless spirits and unusual characters. Fourteen-year-old Trevor Riddell simply wants his parents to reunite and hopes for a normal family life, but realizes this won’t happen until his father overcomes issues from his own childhood. Will Trevor’s search for the truth make a difference? On the store’s favorite picks table you’ll find a gem of a story. The Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly by Sun-mi Hwang is a delightful story about loyalty, devotion and determination. Sprout, an egg-laying hen confined to a wire cage, wants nothing more than to be free and a chance to hatch a chick. Will her dream come true? A Man Called Ove is a story you don’t want to miss. You’ll laugh, you may cry and you’ll never forget this fabulous story about a lonely curmudgeon whose life changes with the arrival of new neighbors and a stray cat.

perri’s preferences A whole year, including a long, cold winter, has passed since my last book reviews. Much of my reading has focused on my personal fascination with North Korea, which I know has limited appeal, but I have read other books that should interest a wider audience. My favorite recent book is The Prince of Los Cocuyos, the funny, heartwarming and, at times, heart-wrenching memoir by poet Richard Blanco. Blanco, who now lives in Bethel, Maine, immigrated with his Cuban parents to New York and then Miami in the 1970s. He grew up desperately wanting to be American—watching classic American TV sitcoms, craving spray can Cheez Whiz, and besotted with Mickey Mouse. At the same time, he spoke Spanish at home, listened to his family’s stories about their beloved homeland, and worked in a bodega in Miami’s “Little Cuba.” Sources of inspiration for his award winning poetry (Looking for the Gulf Motel is my favorite) are evident in his memoir and the poignant beauty of its final pages brought tears to my eyes. I find most history books a bit heavy going but Sue at the bookstore highly recommended Empress Dowager Cixi by Jung Chang (author of Wild Swans), so I gave it a try. I was not disappointed. Ms. Chang ac-

cessed sources only recently made available by the Chinese government to offer a new perspective of this once reviled and vilified woman who wielded power in China for much of the latter 19th century and brought the country, kicking and screaming, into the modern age. Filled with assassinations, political intrigue, insidious plots, and rich cultural detail, this meticulously researched biography of an extraordinary woman moves briskly along like an elaborate Hong Kong soap opera. Although I am no sports fan, I am not opposed to sports when they are used as a context. In A Nice Little Place on the North Side: A History of Triumph, Mostly Defeat, and Incurable Hope at Wrigley Field, columnist George F. Will traces a century of the beleaguered Chicago Cubs and the ballpark their long-suffering fans call home. Wrigley Field has always been focused on the fans, and it was once described as a fine place for “people not particularly interested in baseball.” Charming, humorous and nostalgic, this will appeal to both baseball fans and those who simply enjoy a day out drinking beer with friends. The Forbidden Game: Golf and the Chinese Dream by Dan Washburn follows an American golf course designer, a professional Chinese golfer, and

a relocated peasant on their rags-to-riches journeys through the Wild, Wild East, chasing the modern Chinese Dream. Complete with bizarre government regulations, corrupt officials, opportunists, and profiteers, Washburn presents an accurate and entertaining picture of contemporary China, where golf is both banned and booming. A boy goes into a library to return one book and check out another; a simple, everyday task, but no one in a Haruki Murakami story manages to accomplish anything without taking a turn for the weird. The Strange Library features many of Murakami’s usual components: labyrinthine underground spaces, mysterious females, a significant bird, disturbing situations, and (hooray!) the return of the sheep man. This novella, however, is more poignant than much of his other work, and the quirky book design and illustrations by the fabulous Chip Kidd enhance the disquieting aura of the story. In The Transcriptionist by Amy Rowland, a young woman sits alone in an isolated room transcribing stories phoned in by reporters for a major New York City newspaper. She lives a dreamlike, secondhand life until a shocking news item jolts her into action. This elegant debut novel reflects upon urban alienation, journalism, language, and the “subversive power of silence” in these fast-changing and often dehumanizing times. The three novellas in Anita Desai’s The Artist of Disappearance are set in modern India but involve characters and places that are deeply affected by the past. A longforgotten mansion filled with treasures and a perplexing surprise; a translator who goes too far in her work; and an isolated soul with a beautiful secret are the subjects brought to life in these exquisite, finely crafted tales. Julie Otsuka, author of my previously recommended Buddhas in the Attic, tells the story of the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII through the eyes of a young girl in When the Emperor Was Divine. The narrative is deftly delineated in eloquent, lyrical prose, almost like an extended haiku, if that is possible. Both books are well worth reading for a unique perspective on the unfortunate events of that period in our national history. I have also been reading and rereading Steinbeck, who I consider one of the very best American writers. If none of the above spark your interest, try his great epic East of Eden for a guaranteed good vacation read… lakelivingmaine.com

summer bookshelf Book Reviews from the Owners & Staff of Bridgton Books

Pam’s Picks for Kids & Young Adults

Where Do Diggers Sleep at Night? By Brianna Caplan Sayres Ages 1+ Parents hoping to rev-down their truckobsessed children at night will love reading this dreamy story. Creative play on words will help prepare kids for bed and lure them into a deep slumber. If you are a fan of Dinotrux, you will adore this hardy, goodnight truck board book. Look! By Jeff Mack Ages 1+ What does a gorilla need to do to get attention from a friend who is hopelessly glued to the TV? Several acrobatic tricks, involving multiple books and a bicycle, generate no interest, until the gorilla’s antics take a catastrophic turn and he accidentally demolishes the TV. With the TV in disrepair and books sprawled across the floor, the boy curiously opens one and immediately falls in love with gorilla and his new source of entertainment . . . books! Hug Machine By Scott Campbell Ages 2+ The Hug Machine is on the loose, so watch out! Everybody and everything in his path gets lovingly hugged until he stumbles upon a prickly porcupine and a ginormous whale. Read on to find out how the Hug Machine accomplishes the most impossible hugs. Gaston By Kelly DiPucchio Ages 3+ Gaston, a bull dog, knows he looks and acts differently than his poodle siblings, but he makes his mother proud by working hard at mastering proper poodle manners. One day at the park, poodle family stumbles upon a bull dog family with a poodle that looks exactly like Gaston’s siblings. Immediately they fear a mistake was made at birth and decide to live with their biological families. Will Gaston adapt to his new family or return to his original home? A Library Book for Bear By Bonnie Becker Ages 3+ Mouse wants to take Bear to story hour at the library, but Bear insists he has all the books he needs at home. His favorite pickle book never gets old. Eventually Bear caves and goes to the library and finds the

28 lakelivingmaine.com

librarian reading a new book about a bear and a pickle. Bear quickly discovers a new world of books and also learns proper library etiquette. The Book With No Pictures By B.J. Novak Ages 4+ Novak is clearly up to no good when he writes a children’s book using no pictures. Find out his clever antics to get readers to say nonsensical words. Readers may not want to say them out loud, but you MUST, since you are the reader! This humorous book is sure to bring smiles and laughter to all. Don’t expect to see an author photo at the end of the book! A Snowy Owl Story By Melissa Kim Illustrated by Jada Fitch Ages 5+ Snowy Owl’s natural habitat is the Arctic Tundra where his white feathers camouflage him and keep him safe from predators. In the winter of 2013-2014, food became scarce and Owl was forced to leave his natural breeding ground and fly to Maine. Although food was plentiful here, Owl did not belong on roof tops. This true story by a Maine author and illustrator explain Owl’s journey. The Land of Stories By Chris Colfer Ages 8+ Twins, Conner and Alex, live an ordinary existence until their grandmother gives Alex a fairy-tale book. The mysterious book slowly reveals magical qualities that Alex tries to conceal, but her bizarre behavior only makes Conner more suspicious. Eventually, Alex confesses to Conner about the book’s unusual powers. At first Conner is skeptical. When the book glows, hums and reveals a portal, however, Conner quickly questions where the opening leads. Conversion By Katherine Howe Ages 16+ Excitement was running through the senior

class girls at St. Joan’s School. College applications were being sent out and the top two students were battling it out for class valedictorian. It was all pretty normal until one day in class, Clara had a seizure, which nobody could understand. What initially appears to be isolated to her quickly spread to other girls and panic ensued, although the principal tried to diffuse and conceal the seriousness of the cases. Colleen was assigned to read The Crucible for extra credit, and finally realized this modern day town was the home to Salem Village back in the 17th century, and the mystery slowly became clear. Mosquitoland By David Arnold Ages 15+ Mim Malone is no ordinary teenage girl. Her personality is abrasive and she is independent, intelligent and not influenced by her peers. After her parents divorce, she is forced to live with her dad and stepmother. Mim accidentally learns her mother is ill and can’t figure out why she has stop responding to her recent letters. Unannounced, Mim takes off to Cleveland, Ohio, to find her mother. Along Mim’s unconventional road trip, she meets an array of colorful characters that help her define her journey and discover her true inner self and love. We Were Liars By E. Lockhart Ages 16+ This is a must read for summer and hands down one of my top ten favorite young adult books! The Sinclairs are a prestigious, privileged family that spend summers on their private island off the coast of Massachusetts. The tight-knit family keep to themselves and like it that way. Four inseparable best friends spend the summer together engaged in typical teenage activities. Then a terribly executed plan turns into one big lie and life on the island changes forever.

lakelivingmaine.com

them onto the gas pipes inside the e don’t have electricity lantern, struck a match and held at our camp, at least the flame under each silk bag not the kind made by until it lighted. The flame slowly CMP. For most of our thirty-five burned up to the string, turning years at the lake we have lighted the fabric to ash. Then came the the place with gas lamps. Last moment of truth as we pumped year, we installed a generator up pressure and lit the new manto make our own electricity tles. We all held our breath as the and that changed every thing. mantles sputtered and began to With the mere flip of a switch glow. A few more strokes on the we are able to ignore decades of pump and light filled the kitchtending delicate lamp mantles and en. We had muddled our way sniffing for propane leaks. Flashthrough another camping crisis lights sit unused on the kitchen that I still remember to this day. counter and when we sit down to Eventually, electricity did play cribbage at night, we don’t arrive at the pond. The power need the extra illumination of the company ran a string of utility Coleman lantern. Electricity in poles along the western shore the woods, even the home-made and everyone signed up. At first, kind, still amazes us especially Mom and Dad resisted. This since we grew up without it. must have been in the seventies. Back in the early fifties, when We had lived twenty-five years at Mom and Dad built their little by randy randall the camp with the oil lamp and one room cabin at the pond, they Coleman lantern and we knew lighted with an oil lamp. In those even then that electricity would days, not all that long after the change things. But the linemen and the electricians were all there electrification of rural Maine, oil lamps were still found in many working in the neighborhood so it was convenient to have them farmhouses. Mom had been raised in rural Canada, where taking bring down a line to the back of the cabin and install the electrical care of the oil lamps was a daily chore often handled by the children. entrance. From that time on, camp became a lot more like home with She knew all about filling the lamp and trimming the wick and keepits electric lights, electric refrigerator, an electric water pump and ing the chimney clean. At night, that lamp sat on the kitchen table running water, and then a bathroom and a shower. When Mom and and cast a small circle of light over the checkered tablecloth. Later, Dad retired and began spending summers at the lake, they built a shelf when we were all in bed, Mom turned the wick down and left the in the corner and plugged in a small TV. The change was complete. light burning low so we could see our way in the dark. People who have never lived without electricity would never Neighbors used an Aladdin lamp, a more technically advanced, think it was charming or even safe to be without power. But for us, pressure-driven light that burned very brightly; but they were exrelying on gas and wood and kerosene for light and heat was part pensive and out of our reach. Dad had a tin lamp with a bail handle of the appeal of camp. Being without modern conveniences helped he called a railroad lantern. I remember how he pushed down on a us blend into nature and get back to the basics and appreciate the lever to raise up the chimney and light the wick. He carried this light simple things. In some ways, it challenged us to be creative and keep to the backhouse and down to the shore when we fished at night alive many of the old ways of daily living that are mostly forgotten. for hornpout. A huge improvement was the Coleman lantern Dad Our guests were always enchanted by the soft glow of the gas lamps, was able to afford some years later. This big, two-mantle camping the warm woodstove and how rustic it all was. lantern threw a wide light and considerable heat. We relied on the But even today, we have had to make some upgrades and inColeman for many years. roads into the twenty-first century. Like Mom and Dad, we have One spring, my buddies and I rode our bicycles up to the pond on succumbed as we’ve grown older and the advantages of electricity a grand adventure. We were just a little too young to have drivers’ have outweighed the cost and the decadence. licenses so we biked to the lake, planning to spend a few days fishing At our own remote log cabin, forty years later, we’re experimentfor trout in the nearby brooks. We arrived late in the day and carried ing with solar panels and LEDs. The promise of real electricity from our pack baskets and fishing gear inside the camp. Jim was a strapthe grid is still far in the future. For now we turn on the generator ping 14-year old and when he stood up, his head came right under the when we need to pump water or flush the toilet, and then we turn base of the Coleman lantern that was hanging from a rafter. The lanit off. There is no TV and the refrigerator runs on propane. We like tern tottered for a second, then dropped to the cabin floor. We were it that way because it means camp is still different from home. We stunned. Our only source of light had been destroyed. But luck was have not totally turned our backs on our upbringing, but far back with us. The glass in the lantern had not shattered or even cracked. in our minds we know, when and if they ever do bring a power line The two delicate mantles, though, had dissolved into grey dust. into the lake, we’ll sign up, just like our parents did many years ago, We knew we had to replace those little silk socks before it became and that will change everything. R too dark for us to see. Handling the new mantles gingerly, we tied

Electricity Changes Everything

30 lakelivingmaine.com

lakelivingmaine.com

summer calendar

14 An Other New England Gallery Opening with Bridgtonbased photographers Margaret Lindsey & Drew Sanborn at Denmark Arts Center 5-7 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 14 The Tartan Terrors at Deertrees Theatre 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 15 The Great Adventure Challenge Triathlon at Shawnee Peak Ski Area in Bridgton 9 am, FMI: www.maineadventureracing.com 15 Rufus Porter Museum hosts continued from page 25 the Lake Region Antique Show at 8 3-Mile Road Race to celebrate Stevens Brook Elementary School, Reverend Dole 8 am, FMI or to Bridgton 9 am-3 pm, FMI: www. register: www.dole3miler.com rufusportermuseum.org 8 Sweden Historical Society: 15 40th Annual Lovell Arts and Reading Cellar Holes, talk and Artisans Fair Free and open to walk led by Peter Samuelson and the public. New Suncook School, David Sears. 10 am, FMI: www. Lovell. 9 am-3 pm, FMI: visit SwedenHistoricalSociety.org www.hobbslibrary.org and click on the Arts and Artisans link. 8 Music for Harp & More with E.G. Roth & Friends at Denmark 15 Seeing Through Your Arts Center 7:30 pm, FMI: 207Photographs Workshop with 452-2412 or denmarkarts.org Margaret Lindsey & Drew Sanborn at Denmark Arts Center 8 Don Campbell Band Returns 10 am-2 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 with A Veterans Tribute Concert or denmarkarts.org at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or 15 70th Anniversary of the End www.deertreestheatre.org of Conflict, World War II, Gibbs Museum 2 pm , FMI: 207-647-3699 9 Sweden Historical Society: or www.bridgtonhistory.org People of Sweden’s Past, talk and walk led by Sue Black 15 Short Order Poetry at Denmark and Janet Mahannah (Rain Arts Center (Sponsored by Maine date 8/16) 2 pm, FMI: www. Poetry Central) Poetry by western SwedenHistoricalSociety.org Maine poets. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 9 Sebago Long Lake Music Festival of Deertrees Theatre in 15 An Evening of Dylan Thomas Harrison 2:30 pm, FMI: 207-583- at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison 6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 100th Anniversary of the birth of the Welsh playwright, poet and 9 Wrinkles at Denmark Arts storyteller. 7:30 pm, Center This Spanish animated FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. film weaves a universal tale of life’s final chapters. Post-screening deertreestheatre.org discussion on Alzheimers. 7:30 16 City Lights at Denmark pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or Arts Center Chaplin is at denmarkarts.org his incandescent best in this masterpiece of the late silent film 11 Sebago Long Lake Music era. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 Festival at Deertrees Theatre in or denmarkarts.org Harrison. 7:30pm, Visit http:// sllmf.org for concert details. 18 The Heather Pierson Trio at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison A 11 Minerals of Lovell-Stonehammusical journey of folk, jazz and Stow Dr. Carl Francis, Curator blues. 7:30pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 of the Maine Mineral and Gem or www.deertreestheatre.org Museum, at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library 7:30pm, FMI: 20 Greater Lovell Land Trust 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org Hike: Life on Amos Mountain Gallie Trail, Lovell 9:30am-1pm, 12 Greater Lovell Land Trust Hike: Minerals and Gems of Lord FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org Hill Feldspar Quarry 9:30am1:30pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or 20 Cast Iron: Lecture and skillet www.gllt.org throwing event, Narramissic 3 pm, FMI: 207-647-3699 or www. 13 Family Camo Walk in Pondicherry Park, Bridgton, Lakes bridgtonhistory.org Environmental Association. 9 am, 20 7 pm Sweden Historical Pre-registration required: 207Society: Local Stone Quarries, 647-8580 or mary@leamaine.org presentation by Steve Swenson of Swenson Granite Works, 13 Deertrees New Repertory Sweden Town Meeting house. Company presents Rounding Related walk on 8/22. FMI: www. Third (See play description under 7/24) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 SwedenHistoricalSociety.org or www.deertreestheatre.org 20 The Aeterna Trio at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison Take a piano, cello and a violin, add three talented

32 lakelivingmaine.com

players and stir. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 21 Deertrees New Repertory Company presents Rounding Third (Play description under 7/24) 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www. deertreestheatre.org 21 Nite Owl Club Cabaret at Denmark Arts Center 9 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 21 & 22 Village Folk Festival Depot Street in Bridgton Live music, contra dance, farm-to-table feast, beer garden, art exhibits, activities for all. 9 am-9pm, FMI: villagefolkfest on FB. 22 Sweden Historical Society walk to local granite quarries, led by Steve Swenson from Swenson Granite Works (Rain date 8/23) 10 am, FMI: www.SwedenHistoricalSociety.org 22 Emilia Dahlin Quartet at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison Acoustic roots with a vintage jazz twist. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-583-6747 or www.deertreestheatre.org 22 Rules to Follow in Cloud Engineering with Complicated, Inc. at Denmark Arts Center An interactive theatrical experiment based on the life and teachings of Maine’s own Dr. Wilhelm Reich. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org

23 The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared This Swedish film traces its lead character through the ups and downs of the 20th century. Post-screening discussion on assisted living. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 26 Greater Lovell Land Trust Walk: The Natural Communities of Shell Pond, Stoneham 9am-1pm, FMI: 207-925-1056 or www.gllt.org 27 Mushroom Talk presented by plant pathologist and mycologist Jesse Dubin, Maine Lakes Science Center. 6:30 pm, Pre-registration required: 207-647-8580 or mary@ leamaine.org 28 Mushroom Walk at Holt Pond led by mycologist Jesse Dubin, Lakes Environmental Association. 9 am, Pre-registration required: 207-6478580 or mary@leamaine.org 29 Tarot Show with National Theater of Opera Nouveau at Denmark Arts Center Physical theater, chance operation and audience participation. 7:30 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org 30 Denmark Kennel Club’s first-ever Mutt Show at Denmark Arts Center (Benefits Harvest Hills Animal Shelter) Bring your best friend down to the DAC for a good cause. 3 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 or denmarkarts.org

september

5 ALL TOWN DINNER! Bid farewell to summer with a locallysourced farm-to-table dinner at the DAC. Tickets at denmarkarts.org or at Bridgton Books and Spice and Grain. 7 pm, FMI: 207-452-2412 19 15th Annual Loon Echo Trek A 4.5 or 6-mile hike over Pleasant Mt. and/or 25, 50, 75 and 100-mile bike trek. 7 am-5 pm, FMI: 207-6474352, trek@lelt.org, or register online at: www.loonechotrek.org 19 Annual Harvest Supper, Narramissic 5 pm, FMI: 207-6473699 or www.bridgtonhistory.org 26 12th Annual Lakes Brew Fest, Point Sebago Resort, Casco. 11am4pm, FMI: 207-647-3472 or www. mainelakeschamber.com

continued from page 10 grief and loss; the misplaced responsibility of the family’s breakup. It’s easy to get caught up in Heidi’s contagion, but she’s the first to point out that there are thorns among the roses. For the volunteer counselors, this 24/7 commitment, with maybe one two-hour break during the six days, can be emotionally draining. “The counselors need to support the kids in whatever way the kids need support,” says Heidi. “People give their hearts, time and dedication to make this happen. I am truly blessed.” So are the kids. For one week they get to enjoy fun activities together—together being the operative word. An everlasting part of the experience is creating memories they can carry with them until they meet again. They make scrapbooks filled with photographs and write special messages to each other on pillows or quilts. These tangible items help bridge the gap between visits. As much as possible, Camp To Belong depends on volunteers and donations. Finding the financial resources to keep the camp afloat is a never-ending struggle, but Heidi says that the overall goal she and the Board of Directors have set is that the camp will run until there is no longer a need—meaning that siblings either get placed together or have accountable visitations with each other. Certainly an ambitious goal that they believe may some day happen. “It always strikes me when kids come up and thank me for letting them spend a week with a sibling,” says Heidi. “You shouldn’t have to thank someone for that.” During the celebratory birthday ceremony, the children exchange gifts “purchased” from the birthday shop, a room filled with donated items. There is no greater gift, however, than the chance to be happy and carefree for a week—to renew contact, to play together and even argue—to develop the secret language of siblings. R Third Annual Music Fest @ Camp Wigwam Alumni House To benefit Camp To Belong September 6, 2015, 11am-6pm $10/person; $25/family of 3 or more Featuring local bands, food and games Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets Food for sale NON-alcoholic beverages only, please. Can’t make it but want to support sibling togetherness? Donate online by going to the Camp To Belong Maine home page and clicking on the donation button. www.camptobelongmaine.org

continued from page 11 disruptions and deal with riders who wear metal braces or other essential equipment. Maine was the first state to offer driving at the Special Olympics and Equine Journeys is one of the few programs in the state that teaches cart driving skills. The Ring Farm’s driving teacher is a certified Special Olympics equine coach and instructor. A Meadowbrook cart and a specially redesigned sulky are used to teach driving to those who do not want or are unable to ride. “Repurposed” Standardbred racehorses are chosen for this activity because they already know how to pull a cart. Driving improves the client’s hand-eye coordination and the movement helps them get into a different rhythm, which enables them to focus better. Equine Journeys also offers a unique equine-assisted therapy program for veterans suffering from PTSD. It is free to all veterans and focuses on wellness, rather than the drugs used in most traditional therapies. Calmness, trust, respect and honor are key factors of the program, which aims to help veterans relieve anxiety and cope with various aspects of post-traumatic stress. Through walking a horse around various obstacles with and without a lead rope, they discover new ways to handle relationships and are encouraged to apply what they learn during the sessions to their everyday lives. This groundbreaking program was created by retired U.S. Navy Seal Rob Foley and the curriculum was developed by Bob Carey, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who also has a counseling practice in Bridgton. Although it has been running only two years, the veteran’s program has been very successful and the Ring Farm hosted the 2014 Collaborative Veterans Workshop. Six women from a PTSD support group in Bridgton also took part in a similar, modified program. The Ring Farm is a nonprofit operation and hosts a Family Farm Fun Day on the second Sunday in October as its main fundraiser. The event, offering a variety of activities for all ages, is open to the public and proceeds support the amazing transformations possible through Equine Journeys programs. To read about one woman’s Equine Journeys experience, read Equine Therapy for Veterans: A Gentle Respect at http:// jennifersnorris.com. R For more information about the Ring Farm and Equine Journeys programs check out their Web site at http://equinejourneysme.com.

lakelivingmaine.com

Douglas M. Griffin, VMD, CVA Diane Shively, DVM

We are a full-service hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; open 6 days a week. Specializing in acupuncture and Chinese medicine, oncology and geriatric medicine.

34 lakelivingmaine.com

554 Roosevelt Trail Windham, Maine 207-892-7575

lakelivingmaine.com

Timber Harvesting • Selective Harvesting • Timberstand Improvement

Forest Management • Maine Tree Growth Plans/NH Current Use Plans • Harvest Plans • Free Timber Assessments • Timber Marking

Residential Land Clearing and Road Work • View Cuts • Road Building • Excavation and Sitework

Western Maine Timberlands is a full service sustainable timber harvesting and forest management company servicing Maine and New Hampshire landowners. We pride ourselves in working closely with landowners to ensure your goals are met. Working with us eliminates multiple contracts and high commissions—generating a higher return to you the landowner. Our staff includes a licensed professional Forester as well as a Maine Master Logger. Why choose anyone else? Call us today for your Free Timberland Assessment and find out what your land holds for you. Reach us by phone at 207-925-1138 or e-mail us from the link at our Web site:

36 lakelivingmaine.com

Clement Bros. has been designing, installing and maintaining quality landscapes in the Lake Region area for over 30 years. We are committed to using natural products and best management practices to ensure a safe environment. We specialize in creating outdoor living areas utilizing stone and native plants with an emphasis on low maintenance. Email us at mark@clementbros.com or find us on the web at www.clementbros.com

207-693-6646

Locally-owned and family-operated in Naples, Maine, since 1977. Members of: Professional Landcare Network and Maine Landscape and Nursery Association Certified DEP Contractor

Creating a better environment . . . one yard at a time.

lakelivingmaine.com

38 lakelivingmaine.com

lakelivingmaine.com

40 lakelivingmaine.com