Summer in Maine 2010

Advertising supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

Inside: Camping comforts Adventure: Quad on Katahdin Cool swimming spots Harness racing 101

Things that make summer in Maine special for residents and tourists

By David A. Sargent Freelance Writer

A

nyone who lives in Maine, or who comes to visit, knows that summer is an extra special time in the Pine Tree state.

There are countless ways to enjoy this corner of the world. Some people can’t wait to kick back and soak up the sun. Others want to get going and see it all, do it all, from mountain top to rocky coast.

If there’s one passion both Mainers and vacationers have in common, it is food. The first thing new visitors want to know is, “Where’s the best place to eat?” They’ll get lots of opinions.

In the Twin Cities, residents like to point their visiting relatives and other visitors to several favorites.

It might be Taber’s with its Lake Auburn view, miniature golf and driving range, and great burgers, fries and ice cream. Not far away there are similar treats at Roy’s All Steak Hamburgers and Golf Center, where car collec tors gather on Tuesday nights to showcase restored vehicles. It’s Bike Night at Roy’s on Thursdays for motorcycle fans.

Fuel Restaurant on Lisbon Street in Lewiston is an upscale dining venue in the historic Lyceum Hall.

Fishbones and Davinci’s are two other fine restaurants in renewed sections of the old Bates Mill. Food from India, Somalia and Mexico can be found, and L-A’s FrancoAmerican tastes are an important part of the area’s cuisine.

For many people, Maine food means lobster, and there are plenty of options to find that delicacy without even driving to the coast. Backyard barbecues rank high on the summertime agenda for residents. When relatives from away visit, it’s almost a requirement for Maine hosts to fire up the grill and serve up everything from hot dogs to a full scale shore dinner. [See page 9 for instructions on different ways to cook a lobster.]

Another place where hometown people and vacationers will likely meet is a yard sale. Every weekend, bargain hunters and collectors of all kinds search for who-knows-what.

Golf in Maine can be spectacular.

the area are Fox Ridge, Martindale, Springbrook, Spring Meadows, Fairlawn and others. [See page 7 for our golf directory.]

Both Mainers and vacationers from away share the same opportunities to enjoy Maine, and the tourists and residents blend together every summer as they enjoy this wonderful place.

At Poland Spring, you can play on the first golf course built at a resort in America. Here, before the magnificent Poland Spring House burned in 1976, this site catered to presidents and to the elite families of Boston and New York. It was here that Rose and Joseph Kennedy honeymooned.

Babe Ruth, Betty Grable, Mae West, Joe Lewis, and Judy Garland were among celebrities who stayed at the wonderful hotel and played its golf course with its breathtaking views of the White Mountains. Other golf courses in

Looking for beaches and swimming? The options range from Auburn Municipal Beach to Tripp Lake in Poland, and Range Pond State Park. Want something bigger? The Atlantic Ocean is less than half an hour away.

Mountains? Tr y eas y hik ing at Bradbur y Mountain State Park in Pownal. Oxford County has several easy to moderate mountains for hiking.

Shows and festivals? The Great Falls Balloon Festival is L-A’s premiere summer event, August 20-22. There are lots more shows and festivals all around the state.

Some of the summer theaters with weekly productions are at Brunswick, Ogunquit, and Harrison.

In August, you can see Community Little Theatre’s musical production of “Peter Pan” at Lewiston Middle School Auditorium. There’s great music in both large and small venues all summer.

RV living etiquette

By Tresa Erickson In spite of high fuel costs, many people are choosing to spend their summer camping out in style in an RV. There is nothing better than spending time in the great outdoors with all of the comforts of home at hand.

Whether this is your fifth or first time camping in an RV, make sure you mind your manners and follow these rules.

Drive smart RVs take up a great deal of space on the road and move at a much slower pace. Be aware of this and allow drivers to pass you when possible. Once you arrive at the campground, park in a marked space at the same angle as everyone else and leave plenty of space between the utility pole and your RV.

Follow protocol Most campgrounds have rules, which are usually posted somewhere for all to see. Find out what the rules are in the places where you’ll be camping and observe them to the letter.

If you are required to check in at the front office, do so. If you are assigned a place to park, do so. If you are asked to dispose of trash in a certain area, do so. Don’t arrive at the campgrounds unannounced, take a spot reserved for someone else and dump your trash wherever you please.

Respect your neighbors Treat your neighbors as you want them to treat you. Use the walkways provided for public areas and keep your radio and TV turned down low. Don’t cut through your neighbors’ yards and invade their privacy, or blast your music and destroy their serenity. Watch your satellite use. Try not to put your antenna in any space but yours.

Etiquette

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SUMMER IN MAINE

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

In an RV or motorhome, wherever you are, you’re always at home

By Denise Scammon Special Sections Editor

L

ook for a quality-built super structure when you purchase an RV or motor home and you won’t be disappointed in the durability of your investment, said Gary Mynahan, manager at Whited Motorhome & R.V. in Auburn.

“You’ll want to purchase from a manufacturer like Winnebago Industries with a proven track record in the quality of its products.

Make sure that the manufacturer doesn’t cheapen the construction or options of its entr y level motorhomes and RVs.” My nah a n n o te d th at s o m e manufacturers will cut corners in another important area – parts for the motorhome or RV. “People who purchased a Winnebago 20 years ago can still get parts for it –

Etiquette from page 2

Keep your pet under control No matter how well-behaved your pet is, you should always look after it. Do not let your pet wander around the campground alone. It could get into something it shouldn’t. Leash your pet when outside and pick up after it. Train your pet to be quiet indoors.

a cabinet door, a water tank. But, some other manufacturers buy their parts from vendors so you may be lucky to locate parts for your older RV or motorhome.”

To be able to offer a range of activities which please most of the family, parents with satellite television at home can hook up the box to the big screen TV in the motorhome. “Kids can bring their Xbox and play games at night or during bad weather. People can check their e-mail from a laptop, too,” noted Mynahan.

People interested in hooking up with other campers who have similar interests can check out a local group called “Maine-ABagos,” said Mynahan. According to Maine-A-Bagos, which is a branch of the Winnebago-Itasca Travelers group, the local group meets at various campgrounds

throughout the summer in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont for “fellowship and enjoyment.” Their upcoming schedule includes a campground in Kennebunk from May 21 to 23. For more information about the local group or its schedule of events, call Ernest Ray at 998-2363.

Styles vary from RV to RV, but there is something for everyone, whether you find all the options you want in a motorhome ready to be driven off the lot or order one that meets your requirements.

Mynahan noted that delivery time may take eight weeks on an ordered unit, at which time, you can drive your purchase off the

When vacationing in a motorhome or RV, you may find that you can drive onto your campsite, put the emergency brake on, start up the generator or hook up to an electrical source at the site, press a button and the sides of the motorhome will slide out, expanding the interior space.

lot provided you have a Class C driver’s license (the same as for driving a car). “People who thought they would be intimidated to drive a motorhome are pleasantly

surprised after sitting in the driver’s seat of one. They quickly adjust to the size of what they’re driving and are soon honking the horn as they drive off the lot.”

There’s nothing worse than having to spend the night next to an RV with dogs that bark at the slightest noise.

Lead by example Never lose sight of what is expected of a good camper. Pick up after yourself and leave every campground in as good, if not better, condition than you found it. Be kind to others and give them their space and privacy. Set an example and others will follow!

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

SUMMER IN MAINE

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Mountain adventure: Quad on Katahdin

By Deborah Conway Freelance Writer / Photographer

T

he success of an expedition, at least from my perspective, is defined by the moments of bliss, the shared experiences and the friendships that deepen from the moment that a plan is hatched through the acquisition of whatever goals had been set and achieved.

Some years ago, a friend decided that he wanted to celebrate his 40th birthday on Katahdin, the highest peak in the state of Maine. Given Harley’s status as a quadriplegic, however, this would be a little more than just another hike in the Maine wilderness.

Given our semi-youthful optimism, however, we never doubted our ability to pull it off and so our adventure, aptly dubbed “Quad on Katahdin,” began.

Ascending Katahdin, an Indian word m eaning “greates t mountain,” with its steep slopes, loose rock s and pre carious viewp oint s, is a signif icant undertaking, even in the best of circumstances, and so careful planning was necessary. A large group of friends was called upon to assist and each assigned a set of tasks. From securing the proper reservations and permission we needed from the good people at Baxter State Park, to building or compiling the equipment we thought would get us there safely, to planning meals to keep more than two dozen of us fed and hydrated for four days, all of our assignments fell into place.

On a sunny afternoon in August, our caravan passed the south gate of Baxter State Park and we gathered on the banks of Roaring Brook to make final preparations,

awoke with high spirits to clear weather. Pamola, the spirit that is said to live in Katahdin, was surely pleased. Representatives of the Maine Parks Service were planning to join us for the first leg of our adventure, adding their skill and intimate knowledge of mountain lore. And, so, with boots laced tightly, packs strapped comfortably and Harley selfpropelling his wheelchair, we began the 3.3 mile trek to Chimney Pond, a base camp located just below the tree line.

Careful planning was crucial to the success of “Quad on Katahdin.”

divvy up equipment and food, repack backpacks and celebrate the beginning of our adventure.

After a feast and a bonfire, we settled into our tents to sleep among friends.

Early the following morning, we

Slowly, we picked and rolled our way past trail signs, streams, ponds and stands of white birch.

Eventually, the going got a bit rough for self-propulsion, and poles were attached to Harley’s chair to create the “mountain chair,” a rickshaw-like chair that allowed others, the “Mules,” to assist Harley as necessary.

Occasionally, when the going got really rough, Harley moved into a sedan chair mounted on two longer poles to be carried by a pair of mules.

Chimney Pond campground is a small area that resembles a set from Jurassic Park. Heavily wooded with lean-tos scattered amongst boulders in a bowl created by massive peaks and 2,000’ granite cliffs, Chimney Pond is located at the spot where the trails that ascend the Greatest Mountain get serious. Seriously vertical, seriously challenging, seriously dangerous.

Katahdin

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SUMMER IN MAINE

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

Katahdin from page 4

While some of us set up camp and began preparing our evening meal, others scouted our two trail choices to determine which might bring us closer to our goal of getting Harley up to Baxter Peak, the summit. The Cathedral Trail, named for its three spires of rock that jut out from the side of the mountain, and rising quickly past the tree line, is the most direct route to the summit, but would require some short free climbs and scrambles of large boulders. The Saddle Trail, though ascending more gently than the Cathedral, after weaving its way through massive boulders, was paved entirely with loose rock having once been the site of a massive rockslide. It didn’t take the scouts long to come to the conclusion that “Plan B” was our best option.

two groups summited together, sharing hoots and hollers with Harley via radio and sending good wishes through the clear miles between where we stood, at the top of Maine, and Chimney Pond with Harley below.

After snacks and photographs, we set off for the Knife Edge. The Knife Edge is a 1.1 mile long rocky strip of land deposited as glaciers moved through Maine, with steep drops on either side sometimes so narrow that one can stand astride its crest with feet planted on both sides of the mountain. It connects two mountain peaks, and the Katahdin guide book by

Stephen Clark, as well as mountain trail signs, issue warnings for the traveler including: “Do not use this route in marginal or bad weather because of extreme exposure.”

Fortunately for us, the weather was clear with visibility that could be measured in many miles.

Pamola, apparently, was still happy, and so were we.

Having crossed the Knife Edge, we reached Pamola Peak and began our descent on the Dudley Trail. A significant portion of the Dudley Trail is comprised of boulders the size of buses that one must walk over, between and, occasionally, under.

Returning to Chimney Pond we rested by the cold mountain pond, soaking weary limbs, soothing sore muscles, sharing stories and gazing up at the mountain peaks that had provided us with a memorable adventure.

That evening we celebrated Harley’s birthday as a group, and prepared ourselves to leave that magical place. The following day, we trekked out of our primordial forest and back into reality.

This panoramic view of Katahdin Mountain rising above Chimney Pond reveals Maine’s natural beauty and ruggedness .

Although Harley didn’t make it to the summit of Katahdin, we share d the accomp lishm ent of getting him as close to the summit as anyone with his limitations had ever been and we honored, together, both Harley’s birthday and Katahdin, Maine’s greatest mountain.

“Plan B” included a celebration of Harley’s birthday on the shore of Chimney Pond, at the base of the cliffs below the semi-circle of Pamola Peak, the Knife Edge and Baxter Peak. Our large group divided into three groups. One group stayed with Harley to spend the day enjoying the sunshine, and others hiked to the summit via the Saddle Trail. I joined the group hiking the Cathedral Trail.

With several radios, our groups were in frequent radio contact sharing stories and laughs as each took its own path. Converging on a plateau known as Tableland, the

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

SUMMER IN MAINE

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Find a cool spot on a hot, summer day

By Deborah Conway Freelance Writer / Photographer

S

ummer in Maine means clambakes, bonfires, strawberries and visitors who come from near and far for a taste of “the way life should be.” Summer in Maine also means digging out the swim trunks and beach towels, dusting off the coolers, filling up the beach bags and backpacks, locating the perfect place to park a lawn chair and finding some cool, clean water to wash away the long winter.

Maine is blessed with an abundance of fresh and salt water, still and perpetually in motion, and so it’s never difficult to find a place to cool off and enjoy a lazy summer day.

Sunset from Fort Popham.

Range Pond State Park, Poland For those in Lewiston-Auburn who like to stay close to home or just yearn for a “quick dip,” R a n g e Po n d St a t e P a r k o n Lower Range Pond in Poland is a fantastic destination for a day trip with the kids, as well as a great place to relax, cool off and fire up the hibachi after a long, hot day. With lifeguards on duty,

a long sandy beach, restrooms, picnic areas and ample parking that is close to the beach, it is family-friendly, comfor table, clean and convenient.

Popham Beach, Phippsburg A summer in Maine would not be complete without a trip to the ocean. Popham Beach, located in Phippsburg, is a terrific day trip.

With a large and scenic sandy beach, sandbars, an island, rocky outcroppings and tidal pools teaming with sealife, Popham Beach offers opportunities for e xp loration and e duc ation.

Although lifeguards are on duty, one must always be careful for strong surf and undertow. Fort Popham, built in 1861, is located two miles from the beach. With its arches, vaults, spiral stairs, loopholes and crescent shaped f o o t p r i n t , F o r t Po p h a m i s interesting from both historical and architectural perspectives.

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On the shore of Moosehead Lake, just past Greenville, you will find Lily Bay State Park. This clean and somewhat remote state park has a shoreline of small, smooth rocks and a gentle slope into water that is friendly for even the littlest swimmers.

Get 50% Bonus • Example: $1,000 = $1,500 & $2,000 = $3,000 Date: Time: Although there is no lifeguard on duty, the swimming area is roped off and sheltered. There are picnic tables, a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, swing sets and a large grassy area available for playing. There is also a boat launch and docks a short walk from the swimming area, and hiking trails, quiet spots to catch some fish and, opportunities to see wildlife.

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SUMMER IN MAINE

Cool spots

page 7 ‰

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

Hiking: Safety above all else

By Tresa Erickson

Y

ou’re hiking along happily, taking in the sights and sounds of nature, when suddenly you fall. You got so caught up in the babbling brook, rustling leaves and scampering squirrels that you missed the tree log jutting out in front of you, tripped on it and sprained your ankle. Accidents do happen on hikes, more often than you think.

You need to be alert at all times and follow these safety tips.

predic ted. Pack a compass, map and field guide, as well as cell phone and a first aid kit for emergencies. Know how to use the equipment and where to seek medical attention, if needed.

Travel smart. Stick to the trail.

Don’t wander off, or you just might wind up lost and destroy pre cious e cos ys tems in the process. Protect yourself and the environment. Apply sunscreen v i g i l a n t l y a n d t a ke b r e a k s frequently. Don’t push yourself, or you might not have the energy to finish. Pack out what you pack in and give wildlife their space.

Cool spots from page 6

Pleasant Point Park, on the Saco River Following footpaths through the woods at Pleasant Point Park will bring you to the banks of the Saco River and a series of swimming holes. Some are easily accessible, while others have a tougher access. Some spots have small woodland beach areas, some have sunny rock outcroppings with small

cliffs and rocks for jumping, and some have rope swings.

There are no facilities or other amenities, and sturdy footwear is recommended.

Frenchman’s Hole, Bethel A visit to Frenchman’s Hole, a cold mountain stream, is a great adventure on a hot day. It is a bit difficult to find, but well worth the ef fort. There are sunny spots to sit and places where kids can get into the water easily as long as adults take care to

keep them away from the fast current that could pull them toward the waterfall. The 20’ waterfall empties into a gorge that is deep and wide enough for swimming, but challenging to get into and exit.

The best way in the hole is to wade across the stream and jump in from the rocky cliff that was carved and smoothed long ago by the flow of water. It’s a good drop, so this method is not for the faint of heart.

Ag a i n , s t u r d y f o o t we a r is recommended.

Star t of f small. Forget the 10-mile trek, unless you are highly experienced or have built up your stamina considerably. Choose a shorter route close to home and work your way up to the big hikes.

Prepare for your hike. Research the area where you’re going.

K now what the terrain and weather will be like, and plan accordingly. While tennis shoes might suffice for a short, leisurely hike through a park on a sunny day, boots might be better for a rigorous trek up a mountainside on a rainy day. Let someone at home know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. That way, should you not return on time, they can take action.

Hike with others. Don’t go it alone. You could run into problems and have no one to turn to.

What would you do if you tore a ligament and could not walk or get a signal on your cell phone?

You would have to wait and hope that someone else came along, which may or may not happen.

Bring along a pal, preferably an experienced hiker. Should you suf fer an accident and need assistance, you will have someone there to take care of matters.

Bring the right stuf f. Pack enough food and water to last you throughout your trip. Don’t depend upon Mother Nature for nourishment. Stream water is a no-no, as are many of the nuts and berries you might find along the way. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the weather

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

SUMMER IN MAINE

7

Summer in Maine and the living is good

By Denise Scammon Special Sections Editor

B

y the time real summer weather arrives in Maine, you can have taken steps to create an oasis in your backyard complete with an awning, furniture and hot tub for your deck. First on the list, is to research local companies for a hot tub, a deck awning and deck furniture.

Hot tubs Start with a search for a hot tub that meets your requirements. Measure the space available for the hot tub. Keep in mind

that you’ll want to reserve space for deck furniture and possibly an outdoor heater.

Figure how many people will be in the hot tub at the same time: two, three, four or more? While you’re researching hot tubs online and asking questions of friends who own hot tubs, make a list of features that you would like to have in a hot tub: jets, lighting, stereo systems. Once, you have that basic information at hand — space for a tub, size of the tub, and features — begin contacting local hot tub companies for more information, delivery and installation time, and estimated cost. Now it’s time to move on to the awning for your deck.

Awnings A basic awning can provide you with some privacy and protection from the sun. Depending on the length of, and the material used in the awning, it may even protect you from rain. Awnings can project more than 10 feet from the side of your house over your deck even without vertical supports. It’s easy to see how an awning can extend the use you get from your deck.

Look for additional features such as

retractability, motorized operation and automatic wind sensors. Many color choices are available to match the style of your home.

Deck furniture Durability should be your first concern when purchasing deck furniture. You want your furniture to withstand the elements and also any rough use that may occur. There are hundreds of furniture styles available from wrought iron, glass, tile, wood or resin; round, square or rectangular tables; seats with or without cushions; recliners, rockers, etc. Plan to have enough seating for your family plus guests. Additional furnishings include outdoor lighting which can create ambiance. Think about a deck heater, too, to take the chill out of the air whenever needed.

After all, summer in Maine is a time to get together and enjoy life; there’s no better place than in your own backyard.

IT’S IN THE DETAILS Extend the time you can comfortably relax or entertain on your deck by installing an awning. Brian Buteau, of NuImage Awnings of Maine, in Auburn, can answer your installation questions. The company can provide an at-home demonstration in your driveway at your convenience with their mobile showroom van that has awnings mounted on top of the van for your inspection.

Look at the materials and workmanship and learn how simple the remote control is to use.

Buteau can also explain the warranty that comes with this made in Maine product.

Submitted NuImage photo (left)

Deck material: Select natural or recycledcontent materials, such as recycled plastic lumber, composite lumber or FSC-certified lumber. Stay away from pressure-treated or chromate copper arsenate (CCA-treated) wood which contains chromium, copper and arsenic.

EPA has restricted CCA wood for use only by certified pesticide applicators and is not for use in most residential settings, including decks and playsets. According to the EPA the least toxic alternative available is lumber treated with borate preservatives.

Source: EPA

Warm days, cool nights Maine has one of the most comfortable statewide summer climates in the continental United States. Peak temperatures, normally occurring in July, average about 70°F throughout the state. In the Southern Interior Division during a very warm summer, temperatures may reach 90° for as many as 25 days, and in the Coastal Division, two to seven days. Summer nights are usually comfortably cool.

Source: Maine Tourism Association.

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SUMMER IN MAINE

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

Maine traditions: Lobster, family, fun Benefits of boiling

rolling boil. Add the live lobsters one at a time, and start timing immediately.

Do not cover. Stir the lobsters halfway through cooking. Let the lobsters rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the meat to absorb some of the moisture in the shell.

Lobster weight:

Boil:

Boiling and steaming are the methods of choice when you want to serve whole lobsters. Boiling is a little quicker and easier to time precisely, and the meat comes out of the shell more readily than when steamed. For recipes that call for fully cooked and picked lobster meat, boiling is best.

1 pound 1 ½ pounds 2 pounds 2 ½ pounds 3 pounds 5 pounds

Benefits of steaming

Choose a pot large enough to hold all the lobsters comfortably; do not crowd them. A 4- to 5-gallon pot can handle 6 to 8 pounds of lobster. Put 2 inches of seawater or salted water in the bottom of a large kettle. Set a steaming rack inside the pot and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the live lobsters one at a time, cover the pot, and start timing. Halfway through, lift the lid (careful—the steam is hot) and shift the lobsters around so they cook evenly.

In contrast, steaming is more gentle, yielding slightly more tender meat. It preserves a little more flavor and it’s more forgiving on the timing front. It’s harder to overcook a steamed lobster.

Cooked lobsters will turn bright red, but that’s not the best indicator of doneness, especially for large lobsters. They may still be underdone when the shell turns red.

Jasper White recommends cooking the lobsters for the recommended time, then cracking one open where the carapace meets the tail. If it’s done, the meat will have changed from translucent to white.

The following methods and recommended timings are from Jasper White’s authoritative Lobster at Home (Scribner, 1998).

Boiling instructions Choose a pot large enough to hold all the lobsters comfortably; do not crowd them. A 4- to 5-gallon pot can handle 6 to 8 pounds of lobster. Fill with water, allowing 3 quarts of water per 1 ½ to 2 pounds of lobster. Bring the water to a

8 minutes 11-12 minutes 15 minutes 20 minutes 25 minutes 35-40 minutes

Steaming instructions

Lobster weight: 1 pound 1 ½ pounds 2 pounds 2 ½ pounds 3 pounds 5 pounds

Steam:

10 minutes 14 minutes 18 minutes 22 minutes 25-30 minutes 40-45 minutes

It’s easiest to remove the meat while the lobsters are still warm. If you will be cooking them further in the shell, plunge the partially cooked lobsters into ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and refrigerate until ready to use.

Source: The Maine Lobster Council at www.lobsterfrommaine.com. Visit the site for lobster recipes.

SUMMER IN MAINE

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June 5 in Bethel: Free family fishing event

T

he Upper Andro Anglers Alliance in cooperation with Trout Unlimited will host a free family fishing festival on Saturday, June 5. The festival will be held at Angevine Park on the North Road in Bethel, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. Free casting workshops and fly-tying instruction will be available throughout the day.

28th annual Wilton Blueberry Festival, August 6-7 The Western Maine Expo Center will be open all day Friday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. with crafters, music, entertainment, food and more.

Vendors of Maine-made blueberry products will have their products for sale. Kora Shriners will participate in the festivities for the 10th year. The 10K Run or Walk and Kids 1 Mile Race will take place Friday, August 6. The Baby and Toddler Derby Race will take place Saturday, August 7. No parking on Main Street on Saturday. Towing at owner’s expense. There will be free shuttle service available. No candy tossing from those participating in the parade. Schedule of events can be found at www.wiltonbbf.com.

Local Maine guides and members of the Mollyockett Chapter of Trout Unlimited will teach the workshops.

Instruction will include both spin casting and fly casting for older youth and parents. Maine’s Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Program will supply complimentary rods and reels for use at the festival.

Families can practice newly learned casting skills in the one-acre pond and are welcome to take home their catch. The pond will be stocked with trout courtesy of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Each young angler will receive a minitackle box complete with bobber, sinkers and hook courtesy of the Upper Andro Anglers Alliance.

Kids can learn how to tie flies with materials provided by local outfitters and fly shops. Children will be able to take home their hand-tied flies.

Families participating in the event will be eligible for door prizes from local outfitters and businesses as well as L.L. Bean and Kittery Trading Post. The Bethel Fire Dept. will host a barbecue of hot dogs and hamburgers, chips, and drinks and families are welcome to bring a pack lunch.

The weekend of June 5 and 6 is a free fishing weekend in Maine. Resident and Non-resident freshwater

10 SUMMER IN MAINE

fishing licenses are waived each day.

The Family Fishing Festival is one of many nationwide events that provide families with an opportunity to have fun on the water. The events are promoted by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation www.rbff.org. For those families wishing to stay overnight and fish or canoe the Androscoggin River on Sunday, special family packages are available for the weekend at local lodging establishments.

For information on the Family Fishing Festival, contact the Upper Andro Anglers Alliance at 824-3694, fish@ upperandro.org or www.upperandro.org

The economics of sportfishing: By the numbers

• At nearly 40 million, the number of American anglers is more than 33 times the average attendance per game at all Major League baseball parks combined.

• More Americans fish than play golf (24.4 million) and tennis (10.4 million) combined.

• If fishing were ranked as a corporation, it would be 47 on the 2007 Fortune 500 list of America’s largest companies based on total sales. That’s well ahead of such global giants as Microsoft or Time Warner.

• The National Sporting Goods Association ranked fishing sixth out of 42 recreation activities, preceded only by walking, swimming, exercising, camping and bowling.

Source: American Sportfishing Association.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

You may identify a paraglider by its curved wing, motor on the back of the seat and the lack of wheels.

Submitted photo

Ultralight from page 14

for takeoff and landing. Actually considered an “experimental aircraft,” parachutes are steered by feet, leaving hands free to take pictures. It’s easier to learn to fly a

PPC, they are easier to launch and to land, and they carry more fuel and can travel longer distances and at much higher altitudes.

Paragliding uses no instruments, other than perhaps an altimeter and a compass, “but I usually carry an aviation communications radio as well as an altimeter, GPS system, and a system of heat sensors to monitor engine per formance (when flying a PPC),” Theriault said.

cost under $4,000, and an aircraft and engine package under $9,000.

Either way, ultralight flying lets you experience Maine from the perspective of eagles and osprey, with no more commitment or risk than for more conventional, earthbound sports.

“There’s nothing like the feeling of being able to look straight down, with nothing beneath your feet,” Theriault said, not needing to add that he does so among some of the most dramatic scenery in the world.

A brand new backpack paraglider system, without an engine, will

Maine State Agricultural Fairs 2010 calendar JULY • July 1-4 Houlton Fair • July 8-11 Ossipee Valley Fair— So. Hiram • July 16-18 Waterford World’s Fair—North Waterford • July 22-25 Pittston Fair • July 28-31 Monmouth Fair • July 30-Aug 8 Bangor State Fair • July 30-Aug 7 Northern Maine Fair—Presque Isle

AUGUST • Aug 6-8 Athens Wesserunsett Valley Fair • Aug 8-14 Topsham Fair • Aug 12-21 Skowhegan State Fair • Aug 21-28 Union Fair • Aug 26-29 Piscataquis Valley Fair—Dover-Foxcroft • Aug 26-29 Acton Fair • Aug 29-Sept 6 Windsor Fair

SEPTEMBER • Sept 2-6 Blue Hill Fair • Sept 3- 6 Springfield Fair • Sept 3-6 Harmony Free Fair • Sept 9-12 Clinton Lions Fair • Sept 10-12 Litchfield Fair • Sept 12-18 Oxford County Fair • Sept 17-19 New Portland Lion’s Fair • Sept 19-25 Farmington Fair • S ept 24-26 Common Ground Fair—Unity • Sept 26-Oct 2 Cumberland Fair

OCTOBER • Oct 3-10 Fryeburg Fair

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

SUMMER IN MAINE 11

Learn how to wager a bet: Harness racing 101

W

hen you wager, you are not betting against the track but against everyone who is making that type of wager in a particular race. For example, if you bet a horse to win, your bet goes into the win pool.

Based on how much is wagered on each horse to win, their odds will change accordingly. This is called pari-mutuel wagering, from the French term meaning “amongst ourselves.”

expenses. The remainder of the pool (83% on win, place, and show bets) is returned proportionally to the winners.

In this method of wagering, the public is betting against each other, not against the racetrack.

In effect, the track has no interest in the results of a race. The track simply deducts a percentage from each dollar wagered for payment of purses, state taxes, and

SHOW

Traditional wagers WIN

Exotic wagers EXACTA Picking two horses to finish first and second in exact order.

TRIFECTA

You win if your horse finishes first.

Picking three horses to finish first, second, and third in exact order.

PLACE

SUPERFECTA

You win if your horse finishes first or second.

Picking four horses to finish first, second, third, and fourth in exact order.

You win if your horse finishes first, second, or third.

ACROSS THE BOARD Placing a wager on your horse to win, place, and show. A $2 bet “across the board” would be a $6 wager.

DAILY DOUBLE

Since you are essentially betting against everyone else, the more educated you are in your wager, the better your chance of winning.

Picking the winners of two races that are designated Daily Double races. Wagers must be placed before the running of the first of the two races.

Three races. Wagers must be placed before the running of the first of the three races.

RACING PICK THREE

How to bet

Picking the winners of three races that are designated Racing Pick

When you visit a mutuel window, state the following information:

1. Name of track 2. Race number 3. Amount you wish to wager 4. Type of wager 5. Horse number Example: “Scarborough Downs, seventh race, two dollars to win on number five.”

Novice bettors For those not familiar with wagering, each teller line has a designated NOVICE WINDOW to help with how to read the program, placing a bet, and other racing questions. Pamphlets are available at every mutuel line to help the first time bettor. “Pick A Winner,” “ The Harness Racing Guide” and “Harness Racing 101” are excellent resources for the novice handicapper. Simply ask for your copy. The key is to have fun!

Source: Scarborough Downs

12 SUMMER IN MAINE

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

SUMMER IN MAINE 13

Take to the Maine sky this summer in an ultralight aircraft

By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer

Y

ou may have seen them buzzing overhead during the balloon festivals. You may have seen their shadows before hearing any sounds, and you would be forgiven if you had thought there had been an invasion of condors or pterodactyls. But the view from above is like nothing else imaginable, more exhilarating in many ways than the experience of floating in a hot air balloon.

Ultralight aircraft – defined by the Federal Aviation Administration as aircraft weighing no more than 300 pounds and which carry no more

than five gallons of fuel – provide what is literally a bird’s eye view of the world. Veteran local ultralight pilot, Mike Theriault, distinguished the ultralight experience from other forms of flying, “You can’t imagine what it’s like to be cruising along over 500 feet up and have a bird pull alongside and fly with you for awhile.”

Unlike hot air balloons, ultralight aircraf t (paragliders, with and without engines; power parachutes; and – more common out west – fixed-wing hanggliders) are steerable; while flyers ride air currents, they can control

the flight path and are not strictly limited to whichever way the wind is blowing.

“I often land at the same spot from which I’ve taken of f,” Theriault explained. No license is required (except for larger p ower parachutes that can carr y passengers). The cost of participating in the sport is comparable to snowmobiling or boating, and is, according to Theriault, “completely safe; as long as you’ve had adequate training and you follow some basic rules, there’s no particular risk to ultralight flying, certainly no more dangerous than motorcycles.”

And, the experience can be much richer than sports in which you

Identify a powered parachute by its cart-type rig.

Submitted photo

never leave the ground (or the waves). And yet, there are only “a few dozen” paraglider pilots in Maine, Theriault estimated, with “maybe 30 to 40 qualified to fly

power parachutes,” including fewer than 20 members of the Maine Powerchute Association.

Paragliding uses wind and air currents, much in the way geese and raptors soar. They can be flown at altitudes of up to a couple of thousand feet, even without power assistance, and flights can easily last for several hours. Engines can enable a flyer to take off from flat ground, or not have to wait for favorable wind conditions, but once airborne, most of the flight consists of gliding. The pilot is seated during flight, and once airborne, the weight of the backpack unit that holds the engine and fuel – something between 55 and 80 pounds – is completely alleviated by the lift of the air-supported wings.

“There can be a little physical effort required for takeoff,” Theriault explained, “but actual flight, and even landing, are not strained at all.”

Power parachutes are actually more comfortable, even more luxurious, than paragliders, and can sometimes carry a passenger.

“The difference,” Theriault said, “is that flying a paraglider feels like driving a sports car. It’s about going fast, shifting, sharp turns; very maneuverable. A power parachute feels more like driving a Cadillac.”

PPC flying is accomplished while seated in a three-wheeled buggylike go-cart, equipped with wheels

Ultralight

page 11 ‰

14 SUMMER IN MAINE

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

Summer in Maine 2010 calendar of events MAY • 8 Learn about lobsters at Maine Wildlife Park, Gray, 287-8000.

• 9-11 Moxie Festival, Lisbon Falls, 353-7251.

• 9-August 8 Source to the Sea Trek, day paddling trips, 754-8158.

Center, Bates College, Lewiston, Thursday evenings, 786-6400.

AUGUST

• 2 3 AHCH Hospice House 5K Race and Remembrance Walk, 236 Stetson Road, Auburn.

• 1 0 Annual Norway Arts Festival, Main St., Norway 739-6161.

• 7 -8 Native American POW WOW — Honor the Animals at Maine Wildlife Park, Gray, 287-8000.

• 2 8 Shaker Museum opens, New Gloucester, 926-4597.

• 11-13 Native American Festival, Lisbon Falls, 783-2249.

• 2 0-22 Great Falls Balloon Festival, Downtown Lewiston, 783-2249.

JUNE

• 12 L-A Home & Garden Tour, Lewiston and Auburn, 783-6764.

• 2 6-28 Trappers’ Convention, Bethel, 875-5765.

• 17 Founder’s Day & Classic Car Exhibit, Town Green, Paris Hill, 743-2980.

• 28 Shaker Village, Maine Native American Summer Market & demonstration, New Gloucester, 926-4597.

• 5 Shaker Village Shape Note Singers in the 1794 Shaker Meetinghouse, New Gloucester, 926-4597.

• 12 Fly Tying & Fly Casting with Trout Unlimited at Maine Wildlife Park, Gray, 287-8000.

Kristi Anderson photo

• 18 Kids’ Fish-Off, Riverbend Campground, Leeds, 524-5711.

• 25 Maine Farm Day.

• 18-20 Festival FrancoFun, FrancoAmerican Heritage Center, Lewiston, 783-1585.

• 19 Maine Grains & Grapes Festival, Androscoggin Bank Colisee, Lewiston, 783-2249.

Makenzie Anderson and her father, Mike Anderson, of Lewiston, walk near the fort at Popham Beach recently.

• 29-August 1 Maine Quilts Show, Augusta, 415-4417.

• July-August Mid-summer Lakeside Concert series, Olin Arts

SEPTEMBER • 11 Rick Charette Concert and fun at Maine Wildlife Park, Gray, 287-8000.

• 1 1-13 The Greek Festival, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Lewiston, 783-6795.

• 20 Father’s Day Bass Fishing Tournament, Riverbend Campground, Leeds, 524-5711.

• 2 3-26 Shaker Village Maine Festival of American Music: Its Roots and Traditions, New Gloucester, 926-4597.

• Mid-June - August Auburn Community Concerts, Festival Plaza, every Wednesday, 7 p.m.

• Mid-June - mid-August Wednesdays in the Park, Children’s entertainment and fun, 513-3005.

JULY • 3 Meet a live Bald Eagle at Maine Wildlife Park, Gray, 287-8000.

• 4 Liberty Festival, Veterans Park, Lewiston, 783-2249.

• 4 Festival on the Green, Turner Center, Rte. 117.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010

SUMMER IN MAINE 15

Where the wild creatures can be found Thorncrag Nature Sancturary in Lewiston, maintained by the Stanton Bird Club and other volunteers, offers visitors opportunities for seeing a variety of wild creatures up close. This wildlife preserve is composed of 357 acres and reports from visitors claim it is teeming with over 100 different species of birds ranging from the ruby throated hummingbird to the broad winged hawk. The Club posts scheduled nature walks on its site at www.stantonbirdclub.org. Field trips in the past have included visits to Scarborough Marsh, birding by kayak, and river and cemetery walks. The Club maintains a list of hot spots where wild creatures can be found; this list includes: • L EWISTON WATER TREATMENT PLANT • ROAK BLOCK; Auburn • GULF ISLAND DAM; Lewiston • NORTH RIVER ROAD; Auburn • LAKE AUBURN INLET • NEW GLOUCESTER MARSH

Thorncrag Nature Conservancy has been the scene of “birdwatching, picnicking, hiking, walking, snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing, sledding, skating, and nature photography,” according to the Stanton Bird Club.

Sun Journal file photos

Scarborough Downs calendar of events May 9: Mother’s Day: A flower for every mom; reservations required for brunch buffet 12:30 pm. 8833022; live racing post time 1:30 p.m. with free admission.

June 20: Father’s Day: Chicken BBQ out on the apron. No reservations needed. Beer specials and fun giveaways for Dad; live racing post time 1:30 p.m. with free admission.

July 17: Scarborough Downs 60th Anniversary Celebration; reservations required for buffet 3 p.m.; live racing features the MidSummer Classic $25,000 invitational pace and Breeders Stakes 3YO Filly Pacers out on the track; live racing post time 4 p.m. free admission.

August 8: Scarborough Downs

16 SUMMER IN MAINE

Family Fun Day: Harness racing education, live mare and foal, mini horses, games, prizes, live demonstrations (grooming, horse shoeing, harnessing), and more; BBQ hot dogs and hamburgers out on the apron starting at 12:30 p.m. Free hot dog for kids under 12; live racing features The Mildred Williams International Driving Series for Women Drivers to support Ribbons for Ribbons Breast Cancer Research; live racing post time 1:30 p.m. free admission.

September 12: Maine Breeders Stakes 2-Year-Old Finals: 2-year-olds take the track; 50/50 cash raffle to benefit the Sire Stakes Scholarship Fund; luncheon buffet reservations required; live racing 1:30 p.m. free admission.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, May 2, 2010