Neighbors of the Kennebunks February 2018

February 2018, Photo by Michael D. Wilson

Mother and Daughter Redefine Love as a Place Where All People Matter An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise, Wells, Biddeford Pool, Kennebunk and Arundel.

From the Publisher's Desk

True Love

Rediscovering the Meaning of So much of the February edition of our magazine is devoted to Valentine’s Day and the many wonderful things that couples can experience here in the Kennebunks within the rose-themed auspices of Paint the Town Red. Yet this month’s cover story focuses on a different kind of love that transcends romance by encompassing everyone.

When readers enter the world of Madison’s Café, a small coffee shop and restaurant in nearby South Berwick, they see how a mother’s love may be the strongest of all. Jennifer Saunders’ story illustrates how the love Nicole Grant McCoomb has for her daughter Madison not only inspired her to create Madison’s Café with her business partner Sean Roy in the spring of 2017 but also how it has evolved into a wonderful community movement inspired by the eatery’s motto, “Where All People Matter.”

Thanks to Madison’s mom, the café now employs several people with developmental disabilities. The Madison’s Café story was so amazing that the restaurant was recognized as the 2017 Employer of the Year during the 13th Annual York County Business Awards Dinner, hosted

by York County Community College in nearby Wells.

Perhaps a place “Where All People Matter” gives us an opportunity to rediscover the meaning of true love. Yes, Valentine’s Day is about lovers celebrating what it means to be in love. But it also gives us an opportunity to recognize and celebrate all forms of love.

Some of our readers may wonder why we chose to feature a family and a business that is not based in the Kennebunks or the towns we serve.

Expert Contributors

As publisher, I believe that the story of Madison’s Café is so powerful and inspiring that it transcends such boundaries. Bringing you, our readers, such stories give us a way to shine a light on those who are trying to make a difference and make their communities a better place for everyone.

Publication Team Publisher: Robert Cook Designer: Kari Hinrichs Content Coordinator: Jennifer Saunders Contributing Photographer: Michael D. Wilson

As the father of a 14-year-old boy who is also on the Autism spectrum, I was greatly moved by the creation of this café where I often stop in for a cup of coffee, a “Hawk” breakfast sandwich and great conversation. I see our February cover story as an opportunity to celebrate and share this very loving and welcoming place with the hope it will inspire others to open their hearts and embrace those who simply want to belong, just like everyone else.

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

Businesses should consider following the example set by Madison’s Café by reaching out to some of the York County area agencies that help people with developmental and physical disabilities lead independent, fulfilling lives. If they need to hire people for various tasks, businesses should take the initiative and explore the possibilities.

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.

The greatest Valentine one can give is to simply show someone how much they love them. Love that is given freely from the heart to another will always be humanity’s greatest achievement. Thanks to Madison’s Café, we now know another way we can express love that will surely be returned by all it touches. Happy Valentine’s Day!

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.

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

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February Feature

about it. Roy decided to partner with her in what would be a new venture for both of them.

“Seventy days after that, we opened,” he says, smiling as he and McCoomb recall the whirlwind journey of the past year. “The most amazing thing is meeting all the people who come in here and have a story to share.”

McCoomb and Roy have worked with School to Work Services and other area groups to help their employees transition into the employment world. And their employees have ranged in age from their teens to their 80s. While other businesses are struggling to fill positions, Madison’s is always fully staffed, and both Roy and McCoomb note there is no shortage of individuals like Madison who are able and willing to work.

Several agencies and learning centers in southern Maine help make that possible. Waban Projects in Sanford operates the Waban Works program, which assists individuals seeking employment with onsite job coaches.

Back to Basics in Lebanon, the Morrison Center in Wells and Momentum in the Portland area offer similar services for families and businesses that want to follow the example set by Madison’s Café.

Madi, meanwhile, is all smiles as she chats with café visitors on a chilly December afternoon. Behind the counter, other employees brew coffee and ring up the register. This is a place where no one is a stranger, where laughter, conversation and camaraderie are the norm.

“We were open six months when we were named Employer of the Year,” McCoomb says, smiling at the memory. She, Roy and Madi had been at the dinner together as the café was nominated for a small business award.

They had no idea they were being considered for the honor they received.

“It’s been amazing,”McCoomb says.“We’ve had wonderful community support.

People love our food, love our concept. We source our ingredients locally as much as we can. We like to support other businesses and local schools

MAINE’S LARGEST

AT MADISON’S CAFÉ, LOVE IS PATIENT, LOVE IS KIND AND LOVE IS ALL-INCLUSIVE

& MOST TRUSTED

BY JENNIFER SAUNDERS | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL D. WILSON | We would like to thank Cross Insurance for sponsoring this month’s cover story.

INSURANCE PROVIDER

Nestled on a corner in the village of South Berwick is a cozy café. At a glance, it could be any charming New England eatery. But step inside, and Madison’s Café is so much more.

wonder what was going to happen to her when she graduates high school,” McCoomb explains. Then she saw a story on Facebook about a coffee shop in another state that was committed to employing individuals with disabilities.

There’s the warmth of the woodwork, the tempting menu featuring locally sourced foods and the aroma of fresh coffee brewing, any of which might be enough to convince the random passerby to find a table and spend some time, but there are also the smiling faces of the staff and owners at this very special restaurant that has as its motto, “Where all people matter.”

“It was like a bolt of lightning just struck me,” she recalls. She knew the location that now houses Madison’s Café was for rent and called Roy to tell him

When it comes to looking out for your best interests, you can count on Cross for prompt, professional service.

At Madison’s, the focus is not just on serving delectable dining options but employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Co-founders Nicole Grant McCoomb and Sean Roy opened Madison’s Café in April, and in less than one year, the eatery has become a favorite for area residents and visitors alike. Madison’s was also named the 2017 Employer of the Year during the 13th Annual York County Business Awards Dinner, hosted by York County Community College.

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As McCoomb and Roy explain, Madison’s Café has a mission of empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and helping them develop life skills.

coverage for you.

McCoomb’s inspiration came from her oldest child, Madison, who is now 19 and a senior in a local high school. “I would worry about Madison and 4

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February Feature

Chamber Column

Feel the Love in February

BY LAURA SNYDER SMITH

Everyone should feel the love, and in February we will “Paint the Town Red” with red lights, red decor and red-hot special events planned in the Kennebunks.

Local retailers and restaurateurs will be lit up red with twinkly lights, offering special "red tag," "red plate" and other romance specials during this month of love. In addition to a heart-strewn downtown, Paint the Town Red includes special hotel packages, menus, retail sales, brewery tours, wine tastings, culinary classes, pop-up dinners and even a rocking ice bar kickoff party. “Eat, Stay & Play” specials run from January 27 to February 28.

The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel will once again host the Frosted Ice Bar on January 27; The Waterhouse Center and the chamber will host Date Skate while Kennebunk Land Trust and Boulangerie will host a Snow Stroll, all on February 10; and Old Vines Wine Bar will host two special dinners and the first-ever Avalanche Party on February 17. While restaurants are finalizing their dates and details, here is what’s on the calendar. Check back at LoveTheKennebunks. com for specifics as they come in.

and sports teams. We want to give back.” This Thanksgiving, the Madison’s Café team did just that, providing Thanksgiving dinners to area families in need.

At the café, the staff aims to have something for everyone: Whether it’s gluten-free bread for a favorite sandwich or a vegetarian or vegan option, Madison’s has it all.

“I think people leave here feeling happy,” McCoomb says. “And our employees love to be here. They love working. It gives them so much – a sense of belonging, a sense of ownership.”

When asking a few of the teen employees what they think of Madison’s Café, their responses are all positive: “It’s awesome.”“You get to meet new people and make friends here.”“I love it here.”

“Some people come in and know what we’re all about,” Roy says.

“And some people are truly moved. Some have said, ‘I can’t believe you do this.’ It’s heart-warming,” McCoomb adds.

“It’s gratifying,” Roy agrees.

Looking to the future, McCoomb says she hopes others will be inspired by the positive things happening at Madison’s Café.

“I hope that people look at what we’re doing and realize they can do it, too,” she says. “It’s incredible to see their transformations. We provide them with the tools, but they are teaching us.”

To learn more about Madison’s Café and their latest menus, visit http://madisonscafeofmaine.com or stop by for a cup of joe and see firsthand how much it means to people with disabilities to discover what they can do and see a brighter future for themselves.

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Jennifer Saunders is content coordinator of Neighbors of the Kennebunks Magazine. She can be reached at jsaunders@bestversionmedia.com.

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

Frosted! A Freezing Good Time from 7-10 p.m. Saturday, January 27, at the Boathouse Waterfront Hotel in Kennebunkport. The kickoff event for the Paint the Town Red month includes custom ice bar with luge, light snacks, s’mores and hot chocolate bars and entertainment.

Each ticket includes two signature drinks. Cash bar available as well. Tickets are $55 online or $70 at the door.

Bubbles & Truffles with Chef Pierre Gignac of Ocean from 1-3 p.m., Saturday, February 3 at the Grand Hotel. As the executive chef at Ocean at the Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, Chef Pierre Gignac will teach you the technique and preparation of sumptuous chocolate truffles, using the finest of French and Belgian chocolates enhanced with fine liqueurs, fruits and spices. The chocolate truffles tasting will be paired with a flight of delicious sparkling wines and cordials. $40 per person.

Cocktail Making Class: Saturday, February 3, at Old Vines Wine Bar from 1-3 p.m., $60 includes tax and gratuity. ’80s Disco Night: Tuesday, February 6, at Old Vines Wine Bar. Free first drink for those who dress up. No tickets needed.

Worlds Collide Wine Tasting: Friday, February 9, at Old Vines Wine Bar from 5-7 p.m., $50 includes tax and gratuity.

Cocktail-Making Class: Saturday, February 10, at Old Vines Wine Bar from 1-3 p.m., $60 includes tax and gratuity.

Wines & Valentines from 1-3 p.m., Saturday, February 10, at the Kennebunkport Inn. Join the Burleigh team at the Kennebunkport Inn for their annual Valentine’s wine tasting and enjoy wine pairings and delicious small plates. This class is open to adults 21 years of age or older, and proper ID is required at door. The cost is $15 per person or $25 per couple.

Snow Stroll from 9-11 a.m., February 10, with the Kennebunk Land T and Boulangerie, A Proper Bakery, starting at the Mousam River Wildlife Sanctuary. The 38-acre preserve has more than 2,400 feet of frontage along the river. The trails are easy to moderate in difficulty. This guided walk is a snow or shine event. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Following the walk, stroll over to Boulangerie for a treat and a hot drink. Cost is $10 and more info is available at (207) 985-8734 or kennebunklandtrust.org.

Date Skate is 4-6 p.m., Saturday, February 10, at the Waterhouse Center, Kennebunk. Come ice skate with your sweetheart to the love songs.

Free and open to the public. Next door, the Kennebunk Inn will offer special Paint the Town Red cocktails and a Date Skate Dinner.

tan to Carrie’s classic Cosmopolitan, our team of skilled bartenders will help you find the right balance between spicy and refreshing for the perfect Bloody Mary. Includes five sample-size cocktails and a few snacks. This class is open to adults 21 years of age or older, and proper ID is required at door. Cost is $40 per person.

Avalanche from 7 p.m. to midnight, Saturday, February 17. Cost is $100 and includes food, wine, beer and specialty cocktails, plus a live band followed by a DJ. More details will be released in January.

February is a lovely time to make the most of living in the Kennebunks, so invite your intown or out-of-town friends to join you and #lovekpt and #lovekbk! For information, visit LoveTheKennebunks.com.

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.

THE CHAMBER Kennebunk Kennebunkport Arundel

e Plat Red ials! c spe

Red Tag specials ! special events!

French Wine Dinner: Tuesday, February 13, at Old Vines Wine Bar in Kennebunk, $79 includes tax and gratuity.

Drinks Through the Decades from 1-3 p.m., Saturday, February 17, at the Kennebunkport Inn. Learn how to prepare iconic cocktails from five decades of libations. From the timeless Manhat-

Jan. 27–— Feb. 28

LoveTheKennebunks.com FEBRUARY 2018

7

Pain the Town Red

C eleb rate Love

Wells is chocolate-lovers’ heaven. “We have your traditional favorites like heart-shaped boxes of chocolate and chocolate-covered strawberries, but we also sell unique gifts like chocolate-covered prosecco bottles and made-to-fill cannoli,” says owner Brenda Strum.

IN THE KENNEBUNKS!

BY KATELYN MICHAUD

Hosting hundreds of weddings every year, the Kennebunks is a romantic destination for all ages.

With miles of coastline, charming architecture and award-winning delicious restaurants, there is a reason couples flock to the area year-round — and not just for weddings.

Through February 28, downtown Kennebunkport will deck its streets with red twinkly lights to become “New England’s Most Romantic Town.” It doesn’t matter if you’ve been with your significant other for a week or for 40 years, the Kennebunk region is a special place to celebrate your love. With so many local businesses, you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for your loved one.

Hosted by the Kennebunkport Resort Collection since 2015, Paint the Town Red has quickly become popular with locals and visitors alike.

Kicking off on January 27 at the Boathouse

Waterfront Hotel with the Fourth Annual Ice Bar, the four-week event welcomes couples to celebrate their love with special events, romance hotel packages and “red plate” dining specials.

There are many ways to celebrate your love, from a dozen red roses and a box of chocolates to a romantic weekend at one of the local bed and breakfasts. The Love KPT package at both the Kennebunkport Inn, https://kennebunkportinn.com, and Cape Arundel Inn, https:// capearundelinn.com, is an incredible experience for couples who enjoy a little luxury. Each package includes two nights, a three-course meal at the onsite restaurant, a bottle of wine and chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Similar couples’ packages are available at the White Barn Inn. “For foodie couples, we recommend our Gourmet Getaway, which includes a four-course meal at our five-star, five-diamond restaurant. For couples who like to relax with a glass of champagne and a massage, our midweek Relax, Restore and Renew package is popular,” notes a one White Barn Inn staff member.

During Paint the Town Red, several restaurants offer a “red plate special” throughout the month of February.

If you’re dining on Valentine’s Day, make sure you book ahead as many of the most popular restaurants will book up fast. Ocean Restaurant at the Cape Arundel Inn offers a special

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three-course dinner for two. Named as one of the Top 100 Scenic Restaurants in America, you can’t go wrong with a romantic dinner at Ocean by executive chef Pierre Gignac. If you’re planning to pop the big question, then book table 16 at On the Marsh Bistro, http://www. onthemarsh.com, which has seen more than 52 proposals in the past 17 years.

Pair a box of chocolates with a dozen roses from Downeast Flowers, http://downeastflowers.com. Or, if you’re looking for something a little different this year, tulips and red carnations are a great alternative to roses.

Treat your other half to a couple’s massage at the Village Salon & Day Spa, http://villagesalondayspa.com. Spa owner Pamela Cummings explains, “the treatment will take place in our beautiful candlelit couple’s suite complete with complimentary champagne and chocolates afterward.”

Before heading home or back to your hotel, stop at Down East Wine Imports, http://downeastwine.com, for a fine bottle of wine and cheese.

Every bottle of wine in the store is handpicked by owner Matt Chaney.

Whether you prefer red, white or something in between, he will help you find the perfect bottle for your special day.

If you still have room to spare, head over to Ports of Italy, http://portsofitaly.com/kennebunk, for a late dinner or dessert. Argentina native

German Lucarelli has trained with some of the greatest chefs around the world and now brings delicious and creative Italian dishes to his restaurant in Dock Square.

Throughout the month of February, Old Vines Wine Bar, http://www.oldvineswinebar.com, is hosting several special cocktail classes and wine tastings. These classes make the perfect date night as you and your special someone learn to make delicious cocktails and munch on light appetizers.

For more unique Paint the Town Red events, be sure to check out www. lovekpt.com.

While it might be a bit snowy in February, you don’t want to miss all the great Paint the Town Red events and special offers from local businesses.

Winter is long and cold in Maine, but with a little romance, you heat right up.

Katelyn Michaud is a freelance writer based in Portland, Maine. She recently visited more than 38 countries and returned home to Maine. You can read about all of her adventures around Maine and the world at diariesofawanderinglobster.com.

Speaking of proposals, if you’re looking for the perfect one-of-a-kind vintage ring, then head over to Stonehome Estate Jewelers, http:// www.stonehomeestatejewelers.com, in Kennebunkport and Ogunquit. Specializing in antique and estate jewelry, Paul Duchesne and his staff are happy to customize the perfect gift for your loved one.

For delicious edible gifts, R & R Chocolate & Delights, http://www.randrchocolate.com, in

| David Trottier | Broker, Owner, Realtor

Office: (207)985-4000 Mobile: (207)252-7474 Fax: (207)433-1117 Dtrottier3@gmail.com www.realtysales.biz 8 Summer St, Suite 101 Kennebunk, ME 04043

NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FEBRUARY 2018

9

Recipe Corner

Let’s Ba ke So me Fre sh, Ho me ma de Brea d

BY DEBBIE MEIER

to Take Off the Chill!

With the cold weather that we experience here in Maine, there’s nothing better to help warm the house up than to be baking fresh homemade bread. And nothing makes your house smell like a bakery like fresh bread baking in the oven on a cold winter's day. My grandmother was a master at this craft and passed down some of her hints and tips to me, and I'm more than happy to pass some of them along to you. Most people are intimidated baking their own bread, but it's pretty easy, as you'll see with this recipe, which yields two loaves.

INGREDIENTS: 5 to 6 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour

2 tbsp active dry yeast

1/3 cup of kosher salt

2 tbsp of soft butter

3 cups lukewarm water

1/3 cup of vegetable oil

1/4 cup of sugar

METHOD: In a large bowl, pour lukewarm water and add dry yeast, sugar and salt and allow the yeast to become active. It takes approximately two to three minutes. You'll see the yeast begin to surface on the top of the water. This is called proofing your yeast to make sure that it is still alive.

Then you add the oil.

Then you can start adding the flour one cup at a time, kneading each cup as you go to form a nice soft ball of dough. While remaining in the same bowl, you are going to knead the dough for approximately three to five minutes until it forms into a dough that bounces back to you. Once the dough is formed into the right texture, you are then going to make a ball of it and place it in another bowl that has been greased.

Bake in the oven on 400° for the first 15 minutes and then turn down to 375° for the remaining 30 minutes. As soon as you take the bread out of the oven, rub some butter on the top of the loaves and allow to cool before bagging.

TIP OF THE MONTH: 1.

Always proof your yeast. Nothing worse than taking the time to make bread and finding the yeast is dead, which means no rising for your bread. Make sure that the water is lukewarm and not hot.

If it is too hot, it will kill the living bacteria in the yeast.

2.

Once you master a loaf or two, you can start experimenting with herbs and spices as well as oatmeal and other grains to make the bread even healthier.

3.

Always use the best and freshest ingredients when making bread to ensure the best loaf.

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.

You then place it in a warm spot with a kitchen towel over it and allow it to double in size, approximately 45 to 50 minutes. Then place in your bread pans that have been greased, cover and allow to rise again to double in size. This usually takes 15 to 20 minutes in the bread pan.

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Business Profile

Kitchen & Bath Design Service & Sales As Crook’s reputation for creating his vast repertoire of cuisine has spread, he and his wife Suree, a former chief concierge and front desk manager at The Park Hyatt in Bangkok, Thailand, find themselves and their crew extremely busy. Practically every weekend this summer was booked solid with one function after another up and down the Maine coast. “In one weekend, we did 16 functions,” Crook says, including a special one for an employee’s family in Fryeburg.

Chef Daniel Crook Blends Coast2Coast Cuisine with Vast Culinary Skill and World Adventures

For more about Coast2Coast Caterers, visit www.coast2coastcaterers.com.

Robert Cook is the publisher of Neighbors of the Kennebunks magazine. He can be reached at robert.cook@bestversionmedia.com.

BY ROBERT COOK

In an age where some of the world’s most well-known celebrity chefs combine their flair for exceptional cuisine with the art of storytelling, Daniel Crook may be the prototype.

Crook, the owner and executive chef of Coast2Coast Caterers in Wells, can honestly say that he has traveled and cooked all over the world. But don’t think for a moment that this Kennebunk native spent all of his time in the kitchens in places like the Cliff House in Ogunquit, the Colonade Hotel in Boston or the Ritz Carlton on Maui in beautiful Hawaii.

Crook’s brand of classic French, Italian and California-style cuisine, traditional New England fare and Pacific Rim dishes all have a dash of exotic adventures combined with real-world knowledge. When he wasn’t perfecting his culinary craft at the Gran Wialea Resort overseeing seven restaurants and banquet functions or working at the Four Seasons Resort at Manele Bay, Crook was scuba diving off the coast of Thailand and exploring the mainland where he would learn how to make several Asian dishes.

Crook even attempted to sail around the world with his cousin on a 40-foot sailboat named the Satacean in 2001. Their voyage, which was harrowing at times, brought him to the South Pacific islands of Bora Bora and Tahiti and eventually to Australia.

Before he made his way back to Maine and started his catering business three years ago, Crook had spent no less than 15 years working and living in Hawaii and California. The Pacific Rim entrees, appetizers and culinary delights that he frequently serves at weddings, banquets, corporate functions and gatherings are a big hit.

“I can do anything, but that’s what I have the most fun with,” Crook says.

Crook has always been a go-getter who has never shied away from putting in the hard work necessary to be successful. At 13, he ran a takeout business at Ocean Park in Old Orchard Beach that later became Danny’s Deli.

While he attended Kennebunk High School, he also worked at the former Landing Restaurant in Kennebunkport where David’s is located today.

“One day, I made 98 club sandwiches,” Crook recalls.

One only has to review the Coast2Coast Caterers menu to see how far Crook has come since those sandwich-making days.

1540 Main St., Sanford

Some of the items include a Pacific Rim lunch item of Tom Kar chicken coconut soup, Chinese salad, snow peas, bean sprouts, sesame dressing and crisp wontons. Cold hors d'œuvres like chilled tiger shrimp satay, lime cilantro or Hawaiian poke, spiced Ahi tuna, sesame and chili are just a few examples of palette-pleasing fare that are rare in this region.

324 - 6239

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Crook’s three-course and four-course plated dinners also reflect the Coast2Coast Caterers theme of “East meets West.” Just imagine how wonderful this would taste and your wedding guests’ or corporate colleagues’ delight:

®

Seared diver scallop, celeriac truffle puree, kaffir lime essence Montrachet; baby greens, roasted peppers, chevre, pancetta lardoons, grape tomato with basil vinaigrette buttered braised lobster tail, petite fillet mignon, pea potato puree with port wine demi glaze, strawberry shortcake with whipped cream, rolls and butter, coffee and decaf.

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

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We’re located at: 86 Sanford Road in Wells, ME Online: avitaofwells.com

FEBRUARY 2018

13

KCT Feature

Real Estate

KC T is fo r Love rs

BY LISA LINEHAN

PHOTO OF GREG & AMY DOMBROWSKI COURTESY OF ELEGANT BLISS WEDDING WORK BY BOB PERACHIO

How will you celebrate your Valentine this year?

A bouquet of flowers? A dinner date? A night at the movies? Why not think outside the box of chocolates this year and do something unique.

Create a special memory that will last a lifetime with an experience you cannot buy.

At the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust (KCT), we have preserved over 2,000 acres that are waiting for you to explore with your Valentine.

You might look at KCT and think we are merely a land trust, but we’ve had our fair share of playing cupid in the community. We’ve proudly hosted countless hiking dates on the trails, romantic camping weekends on the islands, quiet paddles on the river, long strolls on the beach and intimate picnics away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. These are moments that are priceless.

And thanks to the trust and our members, they are moments that are free.

While we’re happy to host so many great dates in the Kennebunks, the memories don’t stop there.

Take Goat Island Lighthouse for instance. With the sparkle of the harbor set as a backdrop, the smell of the sea and a ring in his pocket, our tower at Goat Island Lighthouse has been the scene of multiple marriage proposals over the years.

There is also the Emmons Preserve, home of our headquarters and the site of dozens of wedding receptions. Excited guests drive through a tunnel of trees on Gravelly Brook Road to join family and friends to celebrate newlyweds. With the moon high, they dance the night away under the stars with the new Mr. and Mrs. Then there is Goose Rocks Beach. What a sight it is to be enjoying a day in the sun and sand and see a wedding party walk over the dunes to say “I do.” It is a magical setting for a forever memory, a place that people love so much, they want to spend their most treasured day there.

So this Valentine’s Day, get out there and make some memories with the one you love courtesy of KCT. Bundle up and enjoy the solitude of a winter

ACTIVE

walk along the shore. Get out in the woods and explore the freshly groomed trails to warm you up. Make a snowman in the middle of the forest or snow angels in a field. Bring your binoculars and watch birds wintering on a preserve.

Of course, as Cupid, we have some tips for all you lovers out there. Surprise your special someone and pack a thermos full of hot cocoa to warm up on your adventure. Bring some hand-warmers so you are both toasty for hand holding. Be a well-prepared Prince Charming and pack some extra warm gloves and bundles in case your sweetheart is chilly. Plan ahead and have a nice hearty stew going in the crockpot while you are out in winter wonderland. Have some board games, candles and a fire ready for relaxing after your adventure. Love is in the air this winter; get out and experience it!

For trail maps, descriptions of our preserves and directions to our headquarters, please visit www.kporttrust.org. You can also stop in our headquarters to get maps and warm up from your adventure. We are located at 57 Gravelly Brook Road in Kennebunkport and are open normal business hours during the week. We would love to see and your sweetheart out on the trails soon!

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Sold Date

CDOM List Price

SqFt

Beds

22 Summer Street, Kennebunk

6,176

5

6

$985,000

11 Reid Lane, Kennebunk

2,973

3

4

$1.150 million

36 Summer Street, Kennebunk

6,566

5

6

$769,000

31 Summer Street, Kennebunk

5,393

5

7

$850,000

19 Harbor Drive, Kennebunkport

3,812

4

4

$949,000

11 S. Maine Street, Kennebunkport

4,319

8

5

$850,000

18 Lands End Road, Kennebunkport

4,383

5

4

$875,000

2 Landing Way, Biddeford

2,834

4

3

$575,000

844 Pool Street, Biddeford

2,507

4

2

$875,000

1285 Branch Road, Wells

2,551

4

2

$550,000

SOLD

Lisa Linehan is the associate director of the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.

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List Price Baths

Address

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SqFt

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7 Montgomery Court, Kennebunk

5,280

4

4

$590,000

78 Ross Road, Kennebunk

2,144

4

3

$370,410

8 Oak Bluff Road, Kennebunk

2,196

4

3

$350,000

34 River Road, Kennebunkport

3,809

4

4

$741,000

3 Temple Street, Kennebunkport

4,339

7

7

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40 Parkside Drive, Biddeford

1,856

4

2.5

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4 Autumn Lane, Biddeford

2,688

4

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111 Simpson Road, Saco

2,534

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2,855

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127 Webhannet Drive, Wells

1,356

4

2

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Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agent's ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FEBRUARY 2018

15

In and Around Town

Isn't it Romantic

Take Your Sweetheart on an Unforgettable Sleigh Ride

BY STEVE HREHOVCIK

Wonder how to surprise your sweetheart with a memorable gift for Valentine’s Day — something original, something extraordinary, something romantic? Imagine snuggling beneath a warm blanket on a horse-drawn sleigh riding through the snow-covered countryside.

Susan and I have had horses since we were kids. We fell in love with the breed. We bought the farm thinking we’d do sleigh rides and carriage rides when we retired. Of course, we haven’t retired, but we’re having a lot of fun.”

Picture how the snow glistens on the pine trees and gentle slopes while you hear the clip-clop of the horses’ hooves and swoosh of the sled as it glides over “hill and dale.”

Susan describes some of the property’s history: “The farm, dating back to the 1800s, has several buildings, including a 100-year-old barn. The original barn was struck by lightning and burned down. It was rebuilt in 1904.”

Such Valentine’s Day sleigh rides have been a tradition at Rockin’ Horse Stables in Kennebunkport for more than two decades. Each sleigh ride lasts about 30 minutes, with a course that brings visitors to the river that is one boundary of the farm. Following the slight ride, guests gather in the reception area to enjoy a crackling fire, hot chocolate and conversation.

Vincent and Susan Thelin purchased the 10-acre property for Rockin’ Horse Stables in 1994. Prior to the Thelins’ purchase, it was a dairy farm. Vincent had previously moved from Maine to Las Vegas, where he met Susan. They married and returned to Maine often to visit family. Vincent’s father, Alfred Thelin, was part of the art scene in York and Ogunquit. They decided to buy the Kennebunkport farm to satisfy their passion to be near horses.

Vincent explains, “I worked in the mountains out west as an executive chef, where they had sleigh rides drawn by Belgian draft horses. Both

Tending to the horses is an ongoing job. It takes several hours to prepare the horses and sleigh for a ride. During the summer, they get hay from neighboring fields to feed the horses during the winter.

“We have four Belgian draft horses named Doc, Andy, Sassy and Ike,” Susan says.

lins’ horse-drawn carriage as it tours the town. “We have a smaller-size carriage for private rides, a medium carriage that seats eight to 12 and a larger carriage for groups up to 18,” Vincent says. “In addition to rides for Valentine’s Day, sleigh and carriage rides are available for weddings, anniversaries and special events throughout Maine and New England.”

While the origin of Valentine’s Day itself may remain shrouded in myth and mystery, there is no doubt that Feb. 14 stands out as the celebrated day of the year when friends and lovers demonstrate their affection for each other. One account suggests the holiday began as a religious event named for St. Valentine, a priest who married forbidden couples in secret during the third century in Rome. Whatever the origins, the holiday grew in popularity through the years. Today, it is considered the second most popular “card-sending holiday” after Christmas.

Vincent describes one Valentine’s day ride that had a surprise ending.

“A couple headed out on the sleigh when the young man spotted a house fire. He had intended to propose to his girlfriend and give her an engagement ring on the ride. But, since he was a fireman, on seeing the blaze, he didn’t know if he should give her the ring and tell her he’d be back after he fought the fire,” Vincent recalls. “As they went a little further he saw what looked like a house on fire was in fact a safe bonfire. They continued on the ride. He gave her the ring, and she said yes!”

“Helping with farm chores is our 20-year old son Nathaniel,” Vincent adds. “He grew up on the farm and started driving the horses at age five.”

Rockin’ Horse Stables is located at 245 Arundel Road in Kennebunkport.

For information about schedules and rates, call 207-967-4288 or visit www.rockinhorsemaine.com.

Belgian draft horses are known for their strength and beauty. They can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. They have a light chestnut coloring with a flaxen mane and tail.

Steve Hrehovcik is a freelance writer and artist in Kennebunk. He can be contacted

Courtesy Rockin’ Horse Stables. Isn’t it romantic… Your sweetie will love this magical horse-drawn sleigh ride at Rocking Horse Stables this Valentine’s Day.

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

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FEBRUARY 2018

17

February 2018 SPECIAL EVENTS

SAT., JANUARY 27

FROSTED!

@The Boat House Waterfront Hotel Celebrate the official kick off for Paint the Town Red with the Fourth Annual Ice Bar at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel on Saturday, Time: 7pm.

Cost: $70 at the door. https://kennebunkme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details. aspx?ProgramID=29745

FRI., FEBRUARY 2, TO SUN., FEBRUARY 4

BIDDEFORD WINTEFEST CARNIVAL

@Downtown Biddeford The perfect cure for the cabin fever blues, this annual three-day event offers everything from live music and comedy at the City Theatre, dog sled rides, sledding parties, great food and family fun.

Time: Varies https://www.biddefordwinterfest.org

SAT., FEBRUARY 3

WINTERFEST

@Waterhouse Center, Kennebunk WinterFest is an annual winter festival held on the first Saturday in February.

Activities include free horse-drawn wagon rides, skating at the Waterhouse Center, fire baton twirling, an annual soup contest and more! https://www.kennebunkmaine.us/350/WinterFest

Is Myopolis™ Changing the Face of Social Media?

PAINT THE TOWN RED

In the wake of frustration that many people have with social media, Myopolis™ could be changing the face of social media. A well-publicized study released last April (Harvard Business Review April 10, 2017) concluded that depression may be linked to social media usage. According to a recent article from CNBC, Facebook admitted usage could be bad for you. The harm stems from reading posts versus interacting with others, which can positively impact your mood.

Anyone who used social media during the last election can attest to the tiring intensity of the political posts. It becomes very uncomfortable when you face the choice of either “unfriending” your relatives and co-workers or building frustration by reading their divisive opinions.

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Saturday, February 3, at the Grand Hotel | 1-3pm Chocolate truffles tasting paired with a flight of delicious sparkling wines and cordials. $40 per person.

WINES & VALENTINES

The map view allows users to see Pings (posts) from their own Private Citizens (friends) and the people who they have Citizenships with (people they follow). If you’ve ever wanted to be known as the leader in sports, fashion, real estate or news, now’s your chance.

Saturday, February 10, at the Kennebunkport Inn | 1-3pm Join The Burleigh team for their annual Valentine’s wine tasting and delicious small plates. $15 per person or $25 per couple.

Myopolis™ is a unique and useful social media platform that restores the peace and creates an environment where you’re in control of what you see and read.

EARTH AT HIDDEN POND'S WINTER DINNER

Saturday, February 10th, at The Lodge on the Cove | 6pm Join us for an exclusive first look at Chef Joe Schafer’s upcoming 2018 menu.

Your evening begins with a welcome cocktail reception hosted by the Hidden Pond & Earth teams, followed by a three-course family-style dinner showcasing new recipes & menu favorites. $125++ per person

THURS., FEBRUARY 22

WINTER WILDLIFE DAY & SNOW DAY

@Laudholm Farm Celebrate the wildlife of Southern Maine! Join us for lots of family fun with a live animal presentation, guided walk, storybook reading, critter crafts, and fun in the snow.

Time: 11am-12:30pm Cost: Free https://www.wellsreserve.org/event/2-22-18-winter-wildlife-day

DRINKS THROUGH THE DECADES

Saturday, February 17, at the Kennebunkport Inn | 1-3pm Learn how to prepare iconic cocktails from five decades of libations. $40 per person.

TUES., FEBRUARY 20, THROUGH FRI., FEBRUARY 23

FEBRUARY VACATION X-TREME CAMP

@Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farm Sign up by February 11 for this school vacation camp for students in grades 6-9. Drop-off and pick-up at Kennebunk Community Center.

Time: 8am-4pm Cost: $170; $175 for nonresidents https://kennebunkme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29745

PIERRE’S TABLE AT OCEAN AT CAPE ARUNDEL INN & RESORT

Saturday, March 3, at Ocean | 6:00pm Welcome cocktail reception & three course dinner is priced at $55 per person; excludes tax, beverage, and gratuity. Optional wine pairing is $20++ per person.

ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 28

PAINT THE TOWN RED

@Kennebunk Community Center Kennebunkport is painting the town red for romance this February to make its claim as “New England’s Most Romantic Town.” All businesses in Dock Square in downtown Kennebunkport will be decked out in red twinkly lights, and the restaurants, hotels, galleries and shops will welcome romantically inclined visitors with everything from “Red Plate” dining specials to “Red Tag” sales from retailers. http://destinationkennebunkport.com/events/event/paint-town-red/

JANE, A LEADER, NOT A FOLLOWER

Get tickets at www.destinationkennebunkport.com Download the free app in Google Play and the App Store

18

NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FEBRUARY 2018

19

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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

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Visit: FillourFridge.com Call: Annette (207) 702-7877 or Donna (207) 702-7888 *FillourFridge is not affiliated with Hannaford Supermarkets