Neighbors of the Kennebunks Dec 2017

When Harry Met Jill‌ A Relationship Bloomed into Three Kennebunkport Art Galleries

December 2017

Photo by David Bates An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise, Wells, Biddeford Pool, Kennebunk and Arundel.

From the Publisher's Desk

IN 2018, ARE YOU ALL IN? As we present our December 2017 edition of Neighbors of the Kennebunks magazine to you, our readers, and to members of the business community, it is always a great time to reflect on the wonderful year that has been!

In our second full year of being in print, we have shared so many of your wonderful stories that echo the same pride and community values that make living, working and enjoying the Kennebunks such a worthwhile endeavor. As we look forward to 2018, we will continue to welcome new editorial voices who will bring you more engaging stories. We will also continue to grow our audience in the communities we serve.

We shall continue to grow as we go and go as we grow. Such is the case for every business, and thanks to the support we receive from our existing partners, we continue to carry out the mission of this magazine to champion the collective values of this region.

As I continue to engage more businesses and non-profits about the opportunity to work with us, I often find myself explaining what really makes our magazine different from other more traditional Maine print media. I believe the answer is simple. Smaller is better.

It’s true that we don’t go to every single mailbox in Kennebunkport, Kennebunk, Arundel, West Kennebunk, Cape Porpoise, Biddeford Pool and Wells. We certainly don’t arrive in every P.O. box, either. But all of the residents who receive our monthly magazine love it! When we add new readers, we do so at their request to make sure that every member of our exclusive audience wants to receive the magazine.

Businesses and non-profits know they are going in front of a smaller audience every month, but they know they are reaching the same volume of potential clients and customers they would hope to reach with much broader, mass distribution campaigns.

But the size of our audience is not really the most telling point when it comes to explaining the essence of our business philosophy. When a business or non-profit chooses to work with us, they are not just an advertiser that is promoting their brand; they become a community sponsor of the magazine.

They choose to sponsor and support a publication that is very popular with the members of its audience because the magazine tells the stories of local residents on its cover month after month. The magazine also contains consistent content that promotes the values and culture of the Kennebunks in ways that other publications do not.

When our community sponsors come on board, they are sending a strong message to our audience that they are all in!

Expert Contributors seeking customers or patronage. They position themselves as true community champions who support a publication that supports the communities we serve and the people who make up those communities.

Publication Team Publisher: Robert Cook Designer: Kari Hinrichs Content Coordinator: Jennifer Saunders Contributing Photographer: David Bates Photo

Businesses and non-profits that work with us share our values because we strive to reflect the community’s values. With their continued support, your magazine will grow, offer more interesting stories and reach more people. This is truly a cause worth pursuing, and as long as we enjoy the appropriate level of support that is required to operate this magazine, we will go further, we will achieve more and we will break new ground.

Advertising Contact: Robert Cook Email: robert.cook@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 603-970-1751

The reason is because our magazine, our readers, our sponsors and our contributors are all in. When you make your New Year’s resolutions, work with us and enjoy the community pride and satisfaction that goes along with being all in, too.

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: swigglesworth@bestversionmedia.com.

Happy Holidays!

HOA Submission Information Are you on the association board for your subdivision?

Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents.

Publisher, Neighbors of the Kennebunks

Content Submission Deadlines: Content Due:

Edition Date: December 1 January February January 1 March February 1 March 1 April April 1 May May 1 June July June 1 July 1 August August 1 September September 1 October October 1 November November 1 December

Photography courtesy of Robert Dennis

Grocery Deliveries to Kennebunkport, Kennebunk & Arundel - shop On line at Hannaford.com* or SeaSaltLobster.com By phone from Boulangerie bakery or Down East Wine Imports

Schedule a Delivery:

Visit: FillourFridge.com Call: Annette (207) 702-7877 or Donna (207) 702-7888

Craft Beer Brewery/ Restaurant

Caterer Daniel Crook

Meredith Ganz

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Federal Jack’s Brew The perfect blend ofPub flavor & se 207-967-4322

From Award-Winningwww.federaljacks.com Executive Chef Danie

www.coast2coastcaterers.com | 207.646.2087 | 835 Sanford Road, Realtor Betsy Ames Fitzgerald

Mortgage Lender

Sold on Betsy, 4322 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 207-967-5558 www.soldonbetsy.com

Tony Cilea

207-370-4043 www.guaranteedrate.com/loan-expert/tonycilea

Car Dealership

Salon

Dan Doucette

Prime Motor Cars Mercedes Benz 207-510-2250 www.primemotorcars.com

Cherish Stewart

Uptown Curl 207-467-3449 www.uptowncurl.me

Builder Jonathan Trudo

Creative Coast Construction 207-205-4422 www.homebuildinginkennebunkportme.com

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at robert. cook@bestversionmedia.com or phone 603-970-1751.

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Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements, and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2017 Best Version Media. All Rights Reserved.

*FillourFridge is not affiliated with Hannaford Supermarkets

They position themselves as much more than a business or a non-profit

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FOR DETAILS CONTACT:

ROBERT COOK | Publisher

Please Call for an appointment - (207) 324-9223 9 Roy Dr., Sanford, ME 04073 | www.roysmotorsports.com

(603) 970-1751 | robert.cook@bestversionmedia.com www.bestversionmedia.com “Bringing People Together” DECEMBER 2017

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December Feature

set up in the family garage in Standish creating birds, whales and other wildlife.

Growing up, she discovered a fascination with aviation and put art into the background.

She attended Bridgewater State College in Massachusetts, where she earned her pilot’s license. Among her flying assignments were flying routes to Peru.

Her flying career came to a sudden end with the World Trade Center tragedy on September 11, 2001. Just as the nation had to deal with the impact of that terrible day, the aviation industry faced a massive reorganization, and many pilots like Jill lost their jobs.

Behind the Easel:

Jill then turned her attention to art and photography, with a particular emphasis on New

MEET THE ARTISTS BEHIND THE PORT’S COASTAL ART GROUP

MAINE’S LARGEST

BY STEVE HREHOVCIK | PHOTOS BY DAVID BATES | We would like to thank Cross Insurance for sponsoring this month’s cover story.

& MOST TRUSTED

For 16 years, Harry Thompson operated the Northlight Gallery on Kennebunkport’s fabled Ocean Avenue and displayed his watercolor and oil paintings. But no man is an island, and Harry’s world changed forever in 2009 when a young woman from Standish walked into his gallery.

Jill Thomspon was fascinated by the variety of styles and subjects on display. She also enjoyed Harry’s charm and the friendly nature of the gallery. Before they knew it, Jill and Harry began working together. Jill also agreed to help Harry redesign the gallery’s website, even though she admits she had limited experience. How hard could it be?

The business partnership led to the True North Gallery in Dock Square in 2010 and blossomed into an artist romance. Harry and Jill married in 2016. The two galleries later formed the Coastal Art Group, which welcomed a third artist into the fold in 2017 when Laura Weyl opened Thompson and Company a few doors down from True North Gallery.

When Christmas Prelude visitors walk into these three galleries, they will encounter three working artists who are more than happy to 4

discuss their work and their techniques with them. One of the most telling aspects of the Coastal Art Group is that each gallery and artist offers a unique experience that reflects each artist’s creative spirit.

Each artist makes a personal statement with the subjects, style and medium they create.

Beyond their individual strengths, the artists demonstrate a camaraderie with one another.

Harry, Jill and Laura count on each other to provide artistic, technical and emotional support in the complex world of art.

The three artists recall how they embarked on similar journeys to discover their true calling, and those similarities enable them to achieve a creative harmony in all of their affairs.

Army, he attended the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Fla., and worked as an architectural renderer and creative designer.

He decided to branch out into fine art to follow his strong desire to pursue the freedom of artistic expression. His paintings have won awards and have been on exhibit throughout the eastern United States. Harry’s artwork has also been purchased by many private and corporate collectors.

Jill likes to step back from the art she creates and leave its interpretation to the viewer.

“Art is smarter than us. It’s about the viewer, not me,” she says. “I want people to embrace what they are looking at. I try to find the vitality and diversity of the scene while focusing on the emotion of the work I’m creating. I always make an effort to be open to new possibilities and innovative ways to create.”

In addition to Jill and Harry’s paintings, True North Gallery features works of selected artists, along with carvings by her father.

Laura’s art career also began with a school contest.

“I entered a drawing contest in grade school, and my best picture won a set of colored pencils,” she says. “At that tender age, I felt very proud, and I used those pencils to learn some drawing basics. I wish I had saved them.”

Laura was born in Chicago, and grew up outside of Boston. While in high school, she began classes in pottery and glass design. She attended the University of Denver and the University of Southern Maine as an art major with an emphasis on pottery. She features her pottery in the Thompson and Company gallery, which she manages. The gallery also offers smaller gifts popular with visitors, such as cards, mugs, pottery, jewelry and beach towels.

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Like Harry, Jill had an early introduction to the arts. As a youngster, she worked with her father, John, a carver, working in the studio he

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Harry’s art had a humble beginning in grade school. “We had a drawing contest in my class, and the one who created the best drawing would win an ice cream,” he recalls. “I wanted that ice cream, so I was inspired to make the drawing that won the contest. After that, my mother encouraged me to continue drawing.”

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December Feature

Recipe Corner

Working as a team, Harry, Jill and Laura have created three galleries where visitors have an opportunity to see the works of more than 40 established artists, many of whom have been with Harry since he opened Northlight Gallery. Each offers a wide range of prices that appeal to first-time buyers and experienced collectors.

For more information, call 207-251-1889 or visit www.coastalartgroup.com.

BY DEBBIE MEIER Steve Hrehovcik is a freelance writer and artist in Kennebunk. He can be contacted at 207-590-7751 or visit his website at www.kennebunkartstudio.com.

Warm Up with Some Bacon-Wrapped Pork Loin with Brussels Sprouts, Red Potatoes and Fresh Herbs

December is one of my favorite months. I love the hustle and bustle of the Kennebunks — including the tourists who still linger and the locals who are anticipating the beginning of Christmas Prelude, a magical 12-day festival that helps kicks off the Christmas spirit!

Along with all the excitement, I love filling my kitchen with the smells of the season. One of those smells is a juicy pork loin wrapped in bacon, surrounded by succulent Brussels sprouts and red potatoes and bathed in rosemary and fresh thyme. Your kitchen will be smelling just like Christmas in no time — that's a guarantee. So, let's get cooking!

Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at jsaunders@bestversionmedia.com.

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 tbls salt

12 oz of sliced fresh mushrooms

1/2 tbls pepper

1/2 stick of butter

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

1 1/2 lb of chicken tenderloins

1/2 cup grated parmesan

1/2 cup flour

1/2 cup Marsala cooking

1/2 cup of chicken broth

2 green onions

DIRECTIONS: Generously salt and pepper the pork loin. Place six slices of the bacon in a greased casserole dish large enough to hold the pork loin as well as all of your veggies. Place the loin on top of the bacon, and place half of the rosemary and thyme on top of the pork loin. Then, start wrapping your bacon around the loin as if you were braiding it. Set aside.

Dice up the last 3 slices of bacon. In a large bowl, place the potatoes the Brussels sprouts, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, diced bacon and remaining rosemary and thyme. Stir until the Brussels sprouts and potatoes are well-coated.

Season’s 6

Bake in a 400-degree preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then broil just long enough to crisp the bacon on top of the pork loin.

Once again, a one-dish meal that everyone enjoys!convenience.

ENJOY! TIP OF THE MONTH: 1. Brussels sprouts are a vegetable that can last for a long time, up to three or four weeks, in the refrigerator. When buying fresh, remove from the the stalk and store in the refrigerator in an uncovered container. When ready to use, peel back the wilted leaves, rinse and you're ready to go.

2. Herbs are not just for summer. Five top herbs that are the easiest to grow during the winter months are rosemary, thyme, chives, oregano and parsley. When planting, mix half potting soil with half sand. All five of these herbs like dry roots. When watering, make sure they are completely dry to the touch in the first inch of the soil. Other than the rosemary, all of the other herbs thrive the best by trimming them back on a regular basis. Rosemary grows much slower, so no more than a one-thrid of the plant should be clipped at a time.

3. Just a reminder: When cooking any meat products, make sure you let them come up to room temperature before cooking them.

Debbie Meier grew up in Canada and has always had a passion for culinary arts, cooking and sharing the delicious foods she prepares with others. She is well known in the Kennebunks for her delectable meals. Her focus is on simple and easy tips that save time and money in the kitchen. Look for her monthly feature “Deb’s Culinary Tip of the Month” right here in Neighbors of the Kennebunks magazine.

Greetings

NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

DECEMBER 2017

7

KCT Feature

COULD THE FIRE OF ’47 RAGE IN MAINE TODAY?

BY STEVE HREHOVCIK

The 70th anniversary of the “Year Maine Burned” has received wide attention in the media, with shocking accounts of loss and destruction.

The cause of the 1947 fire remains shrouded in mystery, but the fire’s devastating effect has been documented with dramatic intensity in films, interviews and books.

The worst of the fire lasted from Oct. 13 to Oct. 27. It destroyed almost a quarter million acres of forest land, caused the complete ruin of nine towns, including 1,248 homes and cottages that burned to the ground, and left 2,500 people homeless.

Sixteen people died from the fire. Also lost were vast numbers of farm animals and wildlife trapped in the blaze. A protracted drought, lack of trained firefighting personnel and limited equipment, plus rudimentary communications, contributed to the fire’s ability to spread with ravaging speed and unimaginable ruin.

State and local communities learned many important lessons from the 1947 fire. As soon as the smoke subsided, training programs, volunteer fire departments and improved fire apparatus became the norm for most Maine towns. A two-way radio network made it possible for departments to stay abreast of potential dangers and assist neighboring communities when necessary.

Today, the 1947 fire reminds us of the savage power of nature on a rampage. The recent out-of-control forest fires in California are a deadly reminder that conditions here could become dangerous again.

Kennebunk Fire Chief Jeff Rowe, a 35-year firefighter, says, “We must be prepared to prevent history from repeating itself. Throughout the state, communities have added modern equipment and established sophisticated training for firefighters. Our communications take advantage of the latest technology. All these innovations provide a

measure of confidence that we are prepared to meet the next challenge that could surprise us.”

Rowe points out the establishment of defensive measures not available in 1947 that make surveillance of potential problem more effective. This includes observation towers at Mt. Agamenticus in York, Mt. Hope in Sanford and Ossipee Hill in Waterboro. Also, crews dig down to mineral soil to create safe spaces to prevent small brush fires from escalating into dangerous infernos.

While April, May and June of 1947 had severe rain, the weather became dry through September with no rain for more than 15 weeks.

This caused vegetation to become a tinderbox, and state and local authorities began to recognize the possible danger ahead. The State Forest Service reopened fire watch towers as a precaution.

Could there be a repeat of the 1947 fire in Maine? Spofford says, “Absolutely. But, we can point with pride that we have done an excellent job taking precautions to prevent such a disaster from happening so far. Although, we must always be vigilant in case conditions become threatening.”

The fire started in isolated areas of Mount Desert Island and York County. Whipped by strong winds, the flames spread at will through Bar Harbor, destroying 67 mansions, 170 homes and historic hotels. A fortunate sudden shift in the wind saved the downtown area.

For more details about the fire of 1947 and other state information, visit the Maine Forest Service at www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/.

In York County, in addition to Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and North Kennebunk (renamed Arundel) the towns of Shapleigh, Waterboro, Alfred, Lyman, Newfield, Dayton, Wells, Biddeford and Saco all suffered cataclysmic losses.

Lisa Linehan serves as the Associate Director of the Kennebunkport Conservation Steve Hrehovcik is a freelance writer and artist in Kennebunk. He can be contacted at 207-590-7751 or visit his website at www.kennebunkartstudio.com.

S t e v e Br y a n t & S o n Tr e e a n d Br u s h

Rowe adds, “Residents who build homes in wooded areas can help minimize the danger of a fire spreading. By removing combustible shrubbery and cutting low tree branches, it prevents a manageable ground fire from leaping up and spreading through the trees.”

N o Tr e e Scares Us!

Stephen Spofford, Kennebunk town historian, has given several presentations about the 1947 fire to packed audiences.

Spofford’s great aunt Olive Emmons had the personal tragic experience watching her home in Goose Rocks Beach destroyed by the fire. Spofford says, “After this memory, my grandmother was always afraid of fires.

Everyone needs to be mindful of safe fire habits, such as with campfires, combustible trash and cigarettes. While we are better prepared to fight a fire, once it gets out of control, it takes on a life of its own.”

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Author and historian Joyce Butler captured the terror of the fire in her 1979 book Wildfire Loose: The Week Maine Burned. She interviewed survivors of the inferno and recounted heartbreaking stories of families escaping with their lives, leaving their homes and worldly possessions to the unforgiving flames.

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The conditions that caused the 1947 fire could reappear at any time.

With climate change on the rise, extreme weather patterns have become regular occurrences.

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

DECEMBER 2017

9

Expert Contributor

Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel COFC

The More We Connect, The More We Will Succeed in 2018!

MAKE SURE OUR HAIR CARE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES ARE ON YOUR XMAS LIST!

BY LAURA SNYDER SMITH

BY CHERISH STEWART

It's not a job, it's a lifestyle. Because when you love what you do, it hardly feels like work.

taking the lead on the Kennebunkport Resort Collection's Paint the Town Red campaign.

That's exactly how we all feel about our mission at the Kennebunk-KennebunkportArundel Chamber of Commerce. Day in and day out, Laura, Alaina and I get to "connect community." Sometimes that means helping a visitor find the "best lobster roll;" other times it means introducing a new business owner to others in our "three towns, one community."

Some days it's brainstorming with a business owner on marketing ideas or hosting a business workshop on subjects du jour, and every day it's greeting people in the office coming in to drop off clothes for Kennebunk Cares Closet. That's just a small slice of life at the Chamber on any given day. It's what we do.

Yes, we're a small staff doing big things. We couldn't possibly get this all done ourselves, and we're so grateful for our army of volunteers — a huge thank you to all of them, without them we wouldn't be the strong force we are. You don't necessarily have to own a local business to join the fun. For information on other ways to join the fun, contact events@gokennebunks.com

We're beyond busy, but we wouldn't want it any other way. We all live in this fantastic community, we play here, we shop here, we worship here, we volunteer here, our kids attend school here and we all have chosen this community in which to raise our family.

In other words, we share that same sense of ownership and pride for our small town. We're a team of driven women, women who "do."

We're all talk AND all action too!

As we close out our third year of a revitalized Chamber of Commerce, we are grateful for the opportunity to be "movers and shakers" in our community. In this season of traditions, we're proud to carry on the best of our community favorites — business community trick-or-treating, our Holiday Benefit Auction, our Golf Tournament, Kennebunk's Sidewalk Sale, and our popular After Hours get-togethers and business workshops — while creating some new ones as well. We just held our second annual LAUNCH! A Maritime Festival, CONNECT nonprofit fair and DRIVEN Women, and we amped up our annual dinner-meeting-awards night, now called DRIVE. In 2015 we created Pajama Shopping Day, Community Christmas Market, Family Skating Party, Prelude Gingerbread House Making, a spring Job Fair and the seasonal Village Art Walk. Once again this February we'll be

Stop by Uptown Curl and celebrate this holiday season with luxurious gifts from Davines and Zoya. Choose products from our best-selling lines and celebrate the holidays with the products you love for the people you love. Give the gift of good hair with one of our gift cards or shop from a variety of stocking stuffers, including Zoya lipsticks, lip gloss and polish sets, hair accessories and more!

Laura Snyder Smith is the marketing and events manager at the Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce. She may be reached at events@gokennebunks.com.

Speaking of community traditions, here are the details on our three final events of the season: • Free Prelude Family Skate at the Waterhouse Center in Kennebunk, 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7. Sponsored by the chamber, the Town of Kennebunk and the York County Coast Star, the event will feature skating to a live DJ and a free hot cocoa bar. Fun fact for you: it's the first and only Prelude event held in downtown Kennebunk!

• Gingerbread House Making at The Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9. Children and adults alike will love making their own gingerbread houses with plenty of frosting, sprinkles and festive holiday decorations! A portion of the proceeds will go to the chamber's Beach Wheelchair Fund. Admission is $2 per person (ages 2 and under are free) and RSVPs are requested because it often sells out; call 967-4050. Free Intown Trolley shuttle to/from Dock Square to the Nonantum Resort between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

COMFORT FOOD AT IT’S BEST

Mark your calendar for fun holiday festivities!

Don’t forget to come in for our client’s favorite Winter Warm Up Pedicure or Hot Stone Pedicure after your holiday shopping. A note from our stylists: to prevent damage, never go outside in the cold with damp hair to prevent breakage. Although time is of the essence in the early morning hours, it is important to make sure your hair is completely dry.

December Happenings Prelude Skate Party: 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Waterhouse Center. Free and open to the public.

Make-your-own Gingerbread House: 10:30 AM -12:30 PM Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Nonantum Resort. $3 / RSVP 967-4050

“Anything that is cold expands,” and that is what can happen with a wet hair shaft in the cold weather, which puts you at risk for breakage, damage, and makes your color fade faster. That being said, there is no better way to ring in the new year than with a Brazilian Blowout.

Protect your hair from the cold weather while preventing split ends and breakage and cut down on your heat-heavy styling routine.

Browse our Brazilian Blowout product line for up to four months of smooth, frizz-free, easy-to-manage hair, and cut your drying time in half this holiday season! Schedule an appointment for highlights with one of our talented stylists to complete your festive holiday party style.

Don’t forget to come in for our client’s favorite Winter Warm Up pedicure or hot stone pedicure after your holiday shopping.

Uptown Curl also offers gift cards and a variety of stocking stuffers including Zoya lipsticks in an assortment of winter shades! Stop​​by​​ the​ ​salon,​ ​call,​ ​or​ ​book​ ​with​ ​us​ ​online​ ​today!

7​ ​High​ ​St.​ ​Kennebunk,​ ​ME​ ​04043, (207)​ ​4673449,​ ​ ​www.uptowncurl.me.

Cherish Stewart is the owner of Uptown Curl in Kennebunk, Maine.

We are excited to announce that we now offer eyelash extensions. Get long and voluminous lashes without the mascara! With tried and true blow dry trends, makeup, and custom color design, we can match your skin tone, seasonal look, and style.

After Hours at Kennebunk Savings: 5:30 P.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13, at Kennebunk Savings Operations Center.

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Uptown Curl is entering its fourth year of business with a combined 37-plus years of experience. Featuring product lines Davines, Loma, Olaplex, Brazilian Blowout, Zoya, and CND Shellac. Uptown Curl is committed to eco-friendly sustainable beauty.

• After Hours — Holiday Style — at Kennebunk Savings from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13; Join us for a festive night of networking with light fare, drinks and live entertainment.

Cost is $5 for chamber members and $10 for the public.

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SEPTEMBER 2017 DECEMBER 2017

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Christmas Prelude

Kitchen & Bath Design Service & Sales craft fairs, a Fire & Ice Bar hosted by the Nonantum Resort, 12 music programs and much more. In 2009, Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude was named the “#2 Christmas Town in America” by HGTV. The KBA is always looking for more volunteers to help with Christmas Prelude. As Padget put it, “it literally takes a village!” There are many volunteer roles open to anyone from decorating the tree to the pooch parade to the clean-up crew.

Behind the Magic of

So, this year as you’re watching Santa and his “lobster elves” arrive by boat or shop until you drop during one of the many arts and crafts fair, remember to thank all the volunteers. Thanks to them, Christmas Prelude is truly a holiday festival not to be missed!

Christmas Prelude

To learn more about Christmas Prelude and see the full schedule of events, visit www.kennebunkportmainelodging.com/christmas-prelude.

For more information about the Kennebunkport Business Association, visit www.christmasprelude.com.

BY KATELYN MICHAUD

Every December, thousands of people from across the country come to the seaside village of Kennebunkport to watch the lobstertopped Christmas tree light up in celebration of the festive holiday season.

The 36th annual Christmas Prelude kicks off on Dec. 1. For 12 days, the towns of Kennebunkport, Kennebunk, and Cape Porpoise become decked out in colorful lights, red bows and fresh pine boughs like an old Norman Rockwell scene. Kennebunkport has hosted Christmas Prelude since 1982. But without the benefit of a full-time staff of people to stage this amazing holiday extravaganza each year, how in the world does it come together?

It literally takes an army of volunteers from nearly every corner of the community to make it so with the Kennebunkport Business Association leading the way. The KBA works with hundreds of volunteers from churches, schools and civic and community groups who all contribute a piece to the Prelude holiday puzzle.

For the past 11 years, Sheila Matthews-Bull of the Rhumb Line Resort has served as the chair of the Christmas Prelude Committee.

Matthews-Bull became involved with the

Prelude preparations over 20 years ago when she complained to Jackie Kellett about decorating for Prelude before Thanksgiving.

Jackie told Matthews-Bull, “If you complain then you’re going to work.” Matthews-Bull has been running to show ever since.

Ashley Padget, the general manager of Alisson’s Restaurant in Kennebunkport, is the President of the KBA. She said, “I got involved because I love what Prelude represents – a traditional New England Christmas with free family friendly events that are open and welcoming for everyone.” Christmas Prelude is orchestrated by Matthews-Bull, Padget and their team of over 50 volunteers.

Planning for Prelude begins about three weeks after the previous year’s event ends. The committee meets to review how things went, what they can do better, and changes they might make for the coming year. MatthewsBull said most of the planning occurs over the summer months and the scheduling occurs in September, but the Committee meets monthly throughout the year.

Prepping for Christmas Prelude takes a team of volunteers hundreds of hours to do every year. There are multiple committees, like the

Tree Committee, the Decorating Committee and more. Matthews-Bull said, “scheduling is definitely the most challenging task. I’m glad Ashley handles most of that.” Padget said, “One of the most challenging aspects is that we are all just volunteers, so we rely on people to pitch in.”

Every year the Christmas Prelude event gets bigger and better. This year, Prelude has a lot of new business members joining in on the festivities, like Honeymaker Mead Works, which will be hosting special tastings throughout the week. Ink & Thistle Press in Union Square is holding a “Make Your Own Holiday Cards” workshop. Many local schools, fire departments, churches and other nonprofits use Christmas Prelude to fundraise, like the Kennebunkport Fire Department, which is serving Chili for the second year in a row at the fire station.

1540 Main St., Sanford

Christmas Prelude started from humble beginnings 36 years ago in a small community business meeting hosted by Henry Pasco.

Pasco suggested a community Christmas festival, and the rest is history. Over the past three decades, Christmas Prelude has grown into three tree-lighting ceremonies, art and

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Katelyn Michaud is a Portland-based freelance writer. She recently traveled to over 38 countries and has returned home to Maine. You can follow her adventures around Maine and the world at diariesofawanderinglobster.com.

DECEMBER 2017

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DECEMBER 2017 SPECIAL EVENTS

ALL MONTH LONG! SLEIGH RIDES AT ROCKINGHORSE FARM, KENNEBUNKPORT

Sleigh Rides are scheduled by reservation and are available when we have snow on the ground.

Each of our sleighs is an authentic sleigh that is pulled by our beautiful draft horses. Each ride lasts approximately 30 minutes and departs from our 100-year-old barn. Upon completion of your ride you can enjoy hot chocolate next to the fireplace in our reception area. Reservations are required and sleigh rides are always contingent on having sufficient snow. For more information, visit www. rockinghorsemaine.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 9 SANTA RIDES AT THE SEASHORE TROLLEY MUSEUM

@Seashore Trolley Museum, Enjoy a short story and sing along with Conductor Nate when you arrive at the Visitor center. Board the trolley with your covered cup of hot chocolate to sip on during after-dark ride in a heated trolley car. When you get on the trolley, SURPRISE! Santa’s riding with you! He and his helpers will give each guest a pencil and a Postcard (already addressed to Santa) to write on and put in our special Santa mailbox back at the Visitor Center. Everyone gets a goodie-bag with a small toy and a cookie inside to take home! Seating is limited. Advance reservations are required.

NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, DEC. 10 36TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PRELUDE Sponsored by the Kennebunkport Business Association, this event features everything from crafts to caroling. Spotlight events include The Walk to Bethlehem candlelight procession, Fire + Ice for

the adults at the Nonantum Resort, the tree-lighting ceremony in Dock Square and the Christmas Fireworks Display in the Cove. And those are just a few of the events. There are chances to see Santa arrive by lobster boat and fire engine and even a Pooch Parade featuring Portland Sea Dogs Mascot Slugger! Visit www.ChristmasPrelude.com for the full schedule of happenings.

FRIDAY, DEC. 8 VILLAGE ART WALK / ART TRAIL OPEN GALLERIES

This month’s event will offer a chance to glimpse the wonderfully collections at participating galleries.

Find out where to visit at www.GoKennebunks.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 9 AWS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Join the fur-friends and humans of the Animal Welfare Society in West Kennebunk for annual holiday festivities. There’s plenty of free parking at this favorite community event, which features kids’ crafts, holiday snacks and beverages, pet-themed gifts, raffle baskets and, of course, adoptable pets and pet pictures with Santa! Find out more at www. animalwelfaresociety.org

customs and the history of the George Lord Little House from 3 to 5 p. m. To accompany hot tea, Kitchen Chicks Catering will serve assorted tea sandwiches and delicious treats. Guests are invited to visit rooms on four floors, participate in a calling-card etiquette program, and enjoy the tastes, sights, and sounds of the holiday season. Advance reservations for this event are required by Dec. 2.

Call 985-4802 for more information.

CHRISTMAS CAROLS CONCERT WITH VIOLIN, VOICE AND ORGAN

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Enjoy a concert of traditional Christmas music and carols presented by Megan Grassi, violin, Monica Bridges, vocalist, and Joyce Painter Rice, organist/pianist in Kennebunkport’s beautiful First Congregational Church at 3 p.m. Find more details at www.firstchurchkport.org.

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree!

SATURDAY. DEC. 16 HOLIDAY BOOK READING

193 Whitten Rd. Kennebunk 207-985-3778 www.holmestreefarm.com

Visit the Brick Store Museum for a reading of the Polar Express by the conductor himself at 10 a.m.

Come in your coziest set of PJs and enjoy hot chocolate while listening to this Christmas classic. Call 985-4802 for more information.

SUNDAY, DEC. 31

HOLIDAY BOOK READING

Visit the Brick Store Museum for a reading of the Polar Express by the conductor himself at 10 a.m.

Come in your coziest set of PJs and enjoy hot chocolate while listening to this Christmas classic. Call 985-4802 for more information.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

As we ring in 2018, celebrations will include the Wild Blueberry Drop in downtown Kennebunk. Visit the EVENTS section of www.gokennebunks.com for event details.

SUNDAY, DEC. 10 14TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY TEA

Guests of all ages are invited to enjoy a sumptuous holiday tea while learning a bit about tea, etiquette

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Plus, we love that pets are allowed to visit! Even though Rosie is a certified therapy dog, it is not a requirement to be allowed to visit. Rosie loves all the attention she receives, both from my dad and all the staff and residents that greet her during our visits. All in all a wonderful long-term care facility!

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DECEMBER 2017

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Remembering the Fallen

Kennebunk Goldstar Family Brings Summit Project to York County

Throughout November, families and members of the public have been able to go to the Restore in Kennebunk and view the special case that contains stones representing 20 service members who have died since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The case has been on display at the Restore since the beginning of November.

BY ROBERT COOK

December 24, Christmas Eve, 2012 is a day that Bob Bob and his wife, Suzanne, will never forget. That was the day that they learned that their son, Derek Russell, 20, was reported missing. His body was later recovered on Christmas Day in a hiking accident in Kodiak, Alaska.

The Coast Guardsman-trained firefighter was hiking Barometer Mountain, used by members of the Armed Forces for training, when he was reported missing on Dec. 24, recalled Bob, who serves as the general manager of the Restore Habitat for Humanity store in Kennebunk.

Derek’s loss was unbearable, and Bob and Suzanne were at a loss as to how they would continue to live their lives and remember Derek. Then a couple years ago, things changed.

they form a circle and take turns talking about the stories of the stones each represented.

“It gives people an opportunity to think about what the exhibit is all about,” Bob said.

At that moment on, Bob and Suzanne realized “we will continue to do this as long as we can crawl up.”

The Summit Project has helped the Kennebunk couple channel their grief and heal from Derek’s loss by allowing them to be part of a special bond shared by servicemembers and their families.

Bob said Suzanne summed up the program’s healing benefits the best: “Now I know I don’t have to tell the story of Derek by myself.”

“It has helped us in knowing that there are people who care for those who have given up their lives for this country,” Bob said. “It has totally opened up the way I think about the sacrifices made in this country.”

Following a Summit Project hike the couple did with 80 other people to the top of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park during this past Columbus Day Weekend, Bob was thrilled that the Summit Project’s Honor Case would be displayed in York County for the first time inside Habitat for Humanity’s affiliate York County Restore.

The Honor Case will be on display at the Restore until Dec. 7 during normal business hours that run from Wednesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no admission and everyone is welcome.

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To learn more about the Summit Project, visit www.thesummitproject.org To learn more about Restore Habitat for Humanity in Kennebunk, visit www.habitatyorkcounty.org

Bob and his wife learned about the Summit Project that brings the families and friends of Maine’s fallen military members since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks together to give them a chance to talk to one another and remember their loved ones.

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DECEMBER 2017

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KCT feature

Discover a new sense of purpose.

Santa Makes Special Delivery to Lighthouse Keepers

BY LISA LINEHAN

“So much of what we do has been done time and time again by those before us,” Goat Island lighthouse keeper Scott Dombrowski stated as he looked out upon the island he has watched over for the past 25 years.

“Of course, some things have changed, but the fundamentals are always there. You have to keep all the working parts functioning, what people see looking good and the island safe for all,” he continued, “It’s a neverending job, but I love it.”

Those visitations slow down when summer turns to fall and the temperatures drop. In many respects, it’s the time the Dombrowskis like best. “After the craziness of summer this is the best time of the year,” Scott states, “there’s more time to sit and reflect, to admire the beauty around us and appreciate the tranquility of the season.”

Scott and Karen have one last person to greet this year. That visit dates back to a lighthouse tradition that started in 1929. In that year pilot Bill Wincapaw began expressing his gratitude to those lighthouses that had saved his life, by providing the direction home during a blinding flight, by dropping Christmas gifts for the keepers. Soon after, he expanded his gift-giving throughout Maine and New England, and in the years to follow, his work was carried on by such men as Edward Rowe Snow and George Morgan.

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Scott and his wife Karen devote over half their year to the care of Goat Island. Like those who have been entrusted with that responsibility before them, they have found that there’s no end to the list of things that need to be done. “We never get bored,” lightkeeper Charles Worrell told the York County Coast Star in 1972, “especially in wintertime. The days fly by and we lose track of time. It seems we just get up it’s time to go to bed again.” When hearing that quote, Dombrowski agreed, except to add the “Arnold Stinson came to bring the package dropped by “Flying Santa” caveat, “and we go to bed tired.”

Edward Rowe Snow which landed in the water and Lee Hutchins picked up,” Mary Bakken wrote in her journal on December 23rd, 1948. Mary’s husband, Joseph Bakken, was the keeper of the light on Goat Island.

They and their two young children lived there year round. “It contained a novel, ‘A Pilgrim Returns to Cape Cod’ by Snow,” she continued, “two balloons, two rubber toys, two bars of candy, two packages of Chesterfields, another book by Snow and a silver airplane. When Joe returned to the island he found another package from Snow. It also contained a novel, cigarettes, candy, balloons, a rubber toy and a pen and pencil set.” The tradition of the “Flying Santa” remained strong.

We understand what your family faces when someone you care about is living with the early symptoms of memory loss.

The “Flying Santa” won’t be dropping his gifts this year. Instead, he will come by helicopter to the island. But the excitement will be just the same. The Dombrowskis will have some young families on hand to share in the joy of the season as they greet him and share gifts. “I don’t know whose smile will be the widest,” Scott declares, “the kids or mine. What a wonderful tradition this is. It’s just another reason why I The current lighthouse is different from the past in one respect. In love this place!” the past, few were allowed to step foot on Goat Island. Now the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust welcomes the public to the island, and the Dombrowski’s have greeted well over a thousand people this Lisa Linehan serves as year. In respect for the working nature of the pier and harbor, the Trust the Associate Director runs no formal shuttle to bring people there. However, each day around of the Kennebunkport high tide, boaters and kayakers find their way to its shore and enjoy its Conservation Trust, in wonderful views and ties to our past.

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