Neighbors of the Kennebunks Magazine February 2019 by cookscribe10

An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Saco, Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise, Wells, Biddeford Pool, Kennebunk and Arundel.

REMEMBERING A DEAR FRIEND:

President George H.W. Bush February 2019

Cover photo by Robert Dennis

From the Publisher's Desk

Expert Contributors

Celebrate Your Love Throughout the Kennebunks! Kennebunkport's annual month-long Valentine's celebration, "Paint the Town Red," truly gives visitors and residents plenty of opportunities to celebrate love and romance with their significant others. Events like "Frosted," the official kickoff, Wines and Valentines and the Earth at Hidden Pond Winter Dinner are just a few ways that couples can celebrate their love. Thanks to the Kennebunkport Resort Collection, "Paint the Town Red" will be held throughout the month of February for the fourth year in a row. It has succeeded in making Kennebunkport "New England's most romantic town," and it gives local businesses an extra midwinter boost by giving scores of visitors one more reason to come here. The businesses like the Boathouse Waterfront Hotel and Restaurant, Kennebunkport Inn, Cape Arundel Inn and Resort and the Grand Hotel where many "Paint the Town Red" events will be held are not the only ones who should benefit from this month-long celebration. There are many wonderful shops, boutiques and eateries that are also ready to serve your romantic gift, dinner and cocktail needs. By patronizing all of the year-round businesses that are open in February throughout the Kennebunks, "Paint the Town Red," will enjoy even greater success.

For couples who want to experience the thrill of riding in a one horse open sleigh as they cuddle under a warm blanket, Rockin' Horse Stables in Kennebunkport has you covered as long as the fields are also covered with lots of snow! In downtown Kennebunk, couples can also enjoy a care-fee day of ice skating at the Waterhouse Center or bowl a few frames and enjoy a great dinner and drinks at the Garden Street Bowl just around the corner. For those who enjoy communing with nature and the majesty of a beautiful New England winter, the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust and the Arundel Preserve provide great trails for cross-country skiing and snow shoeing that can be followed up a warm cup of cocoa at Mornings in Paris in lower Kennebunk village or The Blue Coffeehouse and Winebar or Boulangerie Bakery in downtown Kennebunk.

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

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Craft Beer Brewery/ Restaurant

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.

While "Paint the Town Red" is anchored in Kennebunkport, it is just the tip of the iceberg. Visitors and residents who wish to lavish their loved ones with tokens of affection and memorable experiences should take advantage of everything the Kennebunks have to offer.

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

In addition to the fine restaurants listed with "Paint the Town Red," Kennebunk also offers couples seeking a romantic dinner great options at the White Barn Inn and Restaurant and On the Marsh Bistro.

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

Publisher, Neighbors of the Kennebunks

the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at

Meredith Ganz

Federal Jack’s Brew Pub 207-967-4322 www.federaljacks.com

Salon Cherish Stewart 4322

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Realtor Betsy Ames Fitzgerald

Sold on Betsy, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 207-967-5558 www.soldonbetsy.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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Businesses like Down East Wine Imports can offer a fine bottle of wine and cheese. If your sweetie craves a box of fine chocolates a dozen roses, Downeast Flowers is at your service. The Village Day Spa and Salon in lower Kennebunk village offers intimate and relaxing couple's massages. Across the bridge back in Kennebunkport, Coastal Jewelers has many fine pieces to offer your sweetheart some sparkle.

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For example, if there are couples who are enjoying the special two-night romantic getaways at some of the aforementioned inns and resorts, they shouldn't hesitate to take a stroll through Dock Square and peruse other local businesses that have fine wares.

But romance isn't just linked to inns, restaurants, jewelry and chocolates.

Builder Jonathan Trudo

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FEBRUARY 2019

February Feature

President George H.W. Bush, '41,'

impressed at the professionalism and care the security personnel took to protect the president. Gallant also recalls a dramatic confrontation the president had with the National Rifle Association (NRA) in 1995. In response to an ill-advised fundraising letter by the NRA that attacked law-abiding federal agents, the president ended his lifetime membership with the NRA. Gallant wrote a letter of praise to President Bush, and to his surprise, the president sent him a handwritten note thanking him for his support. Gallant saved the letter as a reminder of the thoughtful and considerate man the president was.

Dr. Timothy Bruhl,

owner of Kennebunk Chiropractic, recalls an incident about 15 years ago when he volunteered to help at the Cape Arundel Golf Classic in Kennebunkport. Former President Bush and several celebrity golfers took part, including CBS sports commentator Jim Nantz. Bruhl served as a food-server under a tent at the fourth hole. At one point, President Bush and Nantz approached, and Bruhl overheard Nantz ask President Bush if he intended to stay after the tournament ended. President Bush told Nance, “No. I promised Barbara I would get home early. I don’t want to disappoint her.” Bruhl appreciated how the President of the United States showed such respect for his wife.

Pamela Cummings

Touched Many Local Residents' Lives with his Friendship and Love of Maine BY STEVE HREHOVIK | PHOTOS BY ROBERT DENNIS

As a Navy pilot during World War II, George H.W. Bush looked for favorable weather reports that stated ceiling and visibility unlimited (CAVU). When the 41st president passed away on Nov. 30, 2018, world leaders, political supporters and rivals, family, friends and neighbors described his storied life with echoes of the optimism and enthusiasm he had for the future: CAVU. Here in the Kennebunks, members of the community shared many experiences with President Bush while he and his family visited their summer residence at Walker’s Point. Here, too, the president inspired heartfelt memories.

Mary-Lou Boucouvalas, library director of

the Louis T. Graves Library in Kennebunkport, for example, tells a story of her father Albert Ridley and President Bush: “After my father retired from his job as a mailman, he had a fishing license and had several personal lobster traps in Saco Bay. One day, in the summer of 1998, he received a call from a gentleman identifying himself as a secret service agent to President George H.W. Bush. The agent said, ‘Mr. Ridley, the president has run over one of your lobster pots by mistake and got your line caught up in the propeller. We tracked you down by your license number on

the trap. The president would like to send you a check to reimburse you for the ruined trap. Where would you like him to send the check?’ After a long pause, my father asked, ‘What did you say your name was?’ The secret service agent responded. My father then said, ‘Why don’t you bring it to me on your way home.’ There was a long silence on the other end. I guess the gentleman forgot that mailmen know where everyone lives — even the secret service! A few days later, the agent showed up at our door with an official letter of apology and a check for $50 to cover the cost of the ruined trap.” Boucouvalas adds, “After my father passed away, we found the uncashed check and the letter tucked in the top drawer in his dresser. He kept it as a special memento of the kindness of a remarkable man.”

Bill Gallant, owner of Mail-It Unlimited in Shoppers Village,

recalls two events that helped shape his appreciation and respect for President Bush. In one instance, Gallant and his wife Anna drove to Walker’s Point, as they had done for many years, to pack President Bush’s office equipment and ship it to his residence in Houston, Texas. The president, Mrs. Bush and their staff were just leaving for their plane. Gallant was

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, owner of Village Salon & Day Spa, describes her 16-year connection with President Bush and his family. It began when Cummings introduced herself to the president following his appearance at a Memorial Day Parade in Kennebunkport. “Mr. President,” Cummings said, “My name is Pam Cummings, and I hear you enjoy massage. Well, here's my card if you ever want a great one.” To her surprise, the following week Cummings got a call to go to Walker’s Point to provide massages for President and Mrs. Bush. Cummings recalls it as one of the best experiences of her life. “They were two of the most intelligent, funny, giving and down-to-earth people I've ever known,” Cummings says. “We had many great conversations, ranging from politics to family to movie star gossip to local town news. Over the years, I've had the honor to also become a massage therapist to their children, grandchildren, as well as friends and diplomats.” “George and Barbara” were dear friends to Cummings and her daughter Mariah, who became a babysitter for the Bush's great grandchildren when she was 11 years old. The last time Cummings saw the president was Oct. 11, 2018. “I knew it would be the last time I would see him,” she recalls. “My heart felt heavy. I felt overwhelmed with sadness. At the same time, I felt deep gratitude for all the years of memories that I get to keep.”

Blake Baldwin,

a Kennebunk selectman and owner of Video Creations, was on occasion the unofficial videographer when the president and his family vacationed at Walker’s Point.

FEBRUARY 2019

“I bought a teleprompter in 2008, so I got called when the president needed filming done,” he recalls. “With all the video equipment we required, it became a challenge to work in the tight quarters of his office. In spite of the lack of space, the president was always gracious and natural when we filmed him. He read off the teleprompter like an anchorman. He was a one-take wonder.” When Baldwin filmed both Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush together, he would refer to them as “84” for the combined numbers of their presidencies: 41 and 43. Several times, Baldwin observed the playful repartee between father and son, with 41 playing the comic and 43 as the straight man. When Baldwin filmed President and Mrs. Bush for a public service announcement for a children’s cancer charity, he saw the president tear-up and look to heaven, thinking of his daughter Robin, who died of leukemia at age three. He recalls the president was also a sensitive man.

Laura Dolce, executive director of the Kennebunk, Ken-

nebunkport, Arundel Chamber of Commerce attended President Bush’s 85th birthday celebration in 2009 when he made his dramatic birthday parachute jump from a helicopter at 6,000 feet. The President celebrated his 75th, 80th, 85th and 90th birthdays by skydiving. He was harnessed to Sgt. First Class Mike Elliott, a retired member of the Golden Knights, for the last three jumps. Dolce recalls the president looked exhilarated when he landed on the target on the grounds of Saint Ann’s Episcopal Church in Kennebunkport. Mrs. Bush and their sons, President George W. Bush, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and members of their families watched the progress of the jump. “Mrs. Bush seemed nervous during the jump, but happy to have him land,” Dolce recalls. “She gave him a kiss."

Kirsten Camp, executive administrator of the Kenne-

bunkport Historical Society, had a number of opportunities to get to know President Bush. “As part of my responsibility for the society, I also coordinate the exhibits at the First Families Museum at the Nott House in Kennebunkport, better known as White Columns. For several years

the museum has featured visual and written displays of the president’s political and personal life,” she explains. In preparation for each year’s museum collection, Camp met with the president and his staff. “It gave me new insights into the generosity and kindness of the president. I considered him a gentle giant. He often sent handwritten thank-you notes to me and the museum’s volunteers,” she recalls. “I also recall his keen sense of humor. He kept asking me if I still worked at the ‘hysterical society.’ I know the President appreciated coming to Kennebunkport and enjoyed bringing his family to Walker’s Point. I heard him say, ‘Peaceful comes to mind, when I come to this spot.’”

years of the presidency, a Texas flag, a variety of photos and boxes of M&M candy and a bottle of champagne given to passengers who flew with the president on Air Force One. The display became a popular attraction for our guests.” In the letter in the display, President Bush describes one of his “bad habits.” He’d pull up his boat Fidelity at the resort’s dock on the Kennebunk River when he knew a wedding was in progress. He enjoyed surprising the bride and groom and wedding guests and taking pictures with them. “We always looked forward to the president’s visits,” Ames says. “He and his family were gracious to the guests and staff. Summers won’t be the same without them.”

Many more people have fond memories and appreciation of the friendship, kindness and considerations of President and Mrs. Bush. Please share your thoughts on our Facebook page #Remembering 41.

Timothy Ames,

director of sales at the Nonantum Resort, had many occasions to interact with President Bush and his family. They often came as guests for dinner and took part in Nonantum events. In 2005, at an anniversary celebration of the Nonantum, President Bush fired the starting gun of the popular canoe race and spoke about his many years visiting the Nonantum. As a tribute to the president, Ames called Jean Becker, the president’s chief of staff after he left office, and asked for permission to create a display highlighting the president connection with the resort. Ames recalls, “The president’s staff was very helpful, providing an impressive array of items that included a personal letter, official Christmas cards issued during the four

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FEBRUARY 2019

Around Town

ON THE PRECIPICE OF HISTORY: Author Recalls Special Appointment with '41 BY JAMES H.K. BRUNER

Since the launch of my legal thriller series “The Bike Cop,” which is loosely based on Kennebunkport — a.k.a. Port Talbot — in the ‘70s and ‘80s, I have been asked what it was like having interactions with President George H.W. Bush and his family.

My turn finally came, and I was ushered through thin hallways to a plain white curved door: There was the president, approaching me from his desk with his hand held out to shake. “Jamie Bruner! Welcome to Washington. How are your mom and dad?”

Should I write about the bomb-sniffing dogs waking me up Sunday mornings out at St. Ann’s Rectory or of my family’s official duties at the inauguration of HW or the meetings with Billy Graham and the president at my house, the rectory? Full disclosure: I was merely the son of the preacher man who happened to pastor the Bush family’s summer place of worship. I was on the periphery for sure. But in this story, the character of George H. W. Bush is so well demonstrated by revealing how he treated people on the periphery.

I blurted some acceptable response, thanking him for this opportunity and immediately went into interview mode. There were two other people in the Oval Office at that time: the photographer and a man with a clipboard in his hand. I plowed ahead, “Mr. President as you may know I am communicating with the Transition Team about serving in the Agency for International Development.” Seeing no recognition of that fact in his face, I nonetheless continued. “I would like to assist AID in identifying countries and industries where we can use our foreign aid to help establish entrepreneurial entities and democratic policies … much like the model we used with the taxi cab companies in South America.”

In the spring of 1989, the Bush Transition Team was in full swing. Being a young lawyer in Albany, N.Y., who summered in Kennebunkport, I had submitted my resume to the transition team for consideration. I was shooting for something in the State Department with a secondary choice of the Agency for International Development (AID). I had just enough credentials with my law degree from Syracuse University and certificate in international law to hold a straight face with Transition Team members who interviewed me. Problem: Given my history serving on the Albany County Democratic Party Committee and being a foot soldier as a young attorney on ballot battles, I was not in line for spoils in a Republican administration. Nonetheless, I pursued. A familial-connected Transition Team member met with me and informed me because I had a big D on my file not to expect much. While this was being pursued in the back channels, I got the hairbrained idea to call on the president while I was in D.C. for three days. I called the White House switchboard and explained my desire to make a courtesy call on the president. I dropped “the friend from Kennebunkport” mantra. The Presidential Appointments Office called back offering a slot at 10am that Thursday and asked for my city of birth and Social Security number. I flipped out — literally jumping on the hotel beds. I treated it like an interview for a job and delved into President Bush’s statements regarding helping fledgling democracies around the world using AID policies to support capitalistic ventures. In my research the night before the appointment, I seized on an article about using AID money to help entrepreneurial taxi drivers in a South American country. I arrived at 9am at the West Wing security gate for the 10am appointment. A handler was sent to fetch me and walked me into an antechamber in the West Wing. It was weird: There were mini living rooms that had their own side privacy walls where visitors were placed in order of appearance. I sat in my chamber with butterflies blooming in my gut — especially upon learning I was being fit in between the 50 state attorneys general and a veteran who had been on the Today Show that morning for walking across the country — twice — with no legs. 8

the election and called my contact at Presidential Personnel to commiserate. The woman was all business. “No, Mr. Bruner, your appointment has been fast-tracked. You will be getting your commission and swearing instructions shortly.” I soon learned it was the D.C. way of filling as many slots before the new administration took over. A month or so later, at a time in my life where I was doing some soul-searching and actually feeling low, a large tube arrived in the mail. I was alone and opened it to unfurl a Presidential Appointment Proclamation with a huge embossed seal of the United States that read, in part, “Reposing special confidence and trust in the integrity, competency, and loyalty of James H.K. Bruner, he is hereby appointed and designated commissioner.” It was signed by President Bush and witnessed by Laurence Eagleburger. While I knew the appointment would probably go nowhere, here was the leader of the free world bestowing the finest words a young man could ever hear. I began to weep. I was sworn in at the New York State Capitol by Lawrence Cook, former chief justice of New York’s highest court. The ceremony took place in December, before Bill Clinton was sworn in, a requirement for its efficacy. It was not until the following fall that I received a letter extending President Clinton’s appreciation for my service to the country. Being on the periphery, I never really had a good chance to look into the oddity of why a Democratic administration would send a fellow Democrat packing. But I did get a chance one Sunday at St. Ann’s to inform 41 that I was fired by Clinton. He quickly responded with a big smile, “Of course you were, son!”

Years later, when I ran for the New York legislature on Republican and conservative lines, a bank check for $500 came out of the blue from Houston, Texas, signed by George H.W. Bush. It was the largest single contribution received in my attempt to move from the periphery. James H.K. Bruner is a summer resident of Arundel and attorney who is the author of "The Bike Cop and the Greater Weight of Evidence."

The Bike Cop in

the Greater Weight of Evidence A new legal thriller series by James H.K. Bruner

elcome to Port Talbot, Maine in the summer of ‘77 when a murder occurred on Ocean Avenue. Read as the town’s nineteen year old Bike Cop uncovers the evidence of the real murderer against all odds and evils.

Clarion Book Review Awards

I thanked him for giving me chance to serve. He looked me in the eye and simply said, “Keep the faith!” and got in the black suburban and pulled out.

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The president’s eyebrows lifted ever so slightly, and he turned to the man with the clipboard and said, “I like that. Make a note of that.” Then he turned to me “Jamie, thank you for coming in today. I have a little memento of your visit here.” The president handed me a small blue box that contained a tie clip with the presidential seal on it and his engraved signature on the back. He put his hand on my back and led me to the curved door. We shook hands and I floated out.

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Think of the humbleness of 41 to receive a kid who went to his same church in the summers and was in the wrong party.

NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

A month later, I received an offer to serve as a chief project officer at AID at a fairly low salary. Perhaps it was a grievous mistake to not accept, but it would have been impossible to live in D.C. with our growing family. I thought my quest was over, and I chalked it up to being a peripheral non-ivy Democrat. Three years later, a late afternoon call came into my law office: “Mr. Bruner, the Office of Presidential Personnel is on the phone,” my secretary announced to the group.

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Wells, Biddeford Pool, Kennebunk and Arundel.

Labor of Love Saves the Port's One-Room Schoolhouse

I told my friends that it was no doubt my brother Ben doing a George H.W. Bush impression. I picked up the phone “Yes, Mr. President how are you?” The woman on the phone asked, “Is this James H. K. Bruner?”

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I stiffened and said, “Yes, how may I help you?” “First question, Mr. Bruner. Are you still enrolled in the Democratic party?”

serving

ort, Cape Porpoise, Saco, Kennebunkp the residents of

Wells, Biddeford

Pool, Kennebunk

and Arundel.

She quickly replied, “Good. Stay. The president would like to nominate you to the White House Conference on the Small Business Commission to be a commissioner serving on a per diem basis at the level of a deputy secretary of an agency.”

serving the residents

of Saco, Kennebunkp ort, Cape Porpoise,

Wells, Biddeford

Pool, Kennebunk

and Arundel.

Ev es Fa mi ly En joy s Lif e Ou t of Po liti cal Sp otl igh t

al Author Meet the Loc 's of this Summer Mystery der Mur Hottest

Man, I wanted to say no; the truth was I still was enrolled but disgruntled. I said, “Yes, I am currently in the D party but am considering options.”

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serving the residents

of Saco, Kennebunkport,

Cape Porpoise, Wells,

Biddeford Pool, Kennebunk

September 2018 Photo by Michael D. Wilson

and Arundel.

July 2018 D. Wilson

Photo by Michael

November 2018 Photo by Michael D. Wilson

Christmas Prelude:

IT'S THE MOST WONDE RFUL TIME OF YEAR!

I felt my ship had come in. Then, while I was under the vetting process, Election Day 1992 struck a blow. Bill Clinton won. I waited a few days after

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“Irresistible”

Available in bookstores, online, and at www.TheBikeCop.com

December 2018 Photo by Robert Dennis

FEBRUARY 2019

Chamber Column

Are You Feeling BY LAURA SNYDER SMITH Are you feeling the love? Sharing that love is the big idea behind “Paint the Town Red” events planned in the Kennebunks during the month of February. Local retailers and restaurateurs will be lit up with red twinkling 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 Feb. 1-28. For example, The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel will once again host its annual Frosted Ice Bar on Feb. 2 and the popular Avalanche party on Feb. 23, plus special dinners. While most 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. SATURDAY, Feb. 2 FROSTED! A Freezing Good Time: 7-10 p.m. at the Boathouse Waterfront Hotel. Join us for the kickoff event of Kennebunkport's Paint the Town Red month: The Fifth Annual FROSTED! A freezing good time. Custom ice bar with luge, signature craft cocktails, light snacks, s'mores & hot chocolate bars, and dance music with DJ Kevin. Ticket include one drink. Cash bar available for beer, wine, and cocktails. Tickets are $55/pp online or $70/pp at the door.

the Love?

the difference between a tincture and a bitter? When to shake, and when to stir? From proper bar ware to proper technique, in two short hours, we'll teach you everything you need to know to impress your guests. Grab a friend or two and join our next small group class. You'll get behind the bar, have a bunch of fun, and meet some new friends. And yes, you get to sample your own work. We'll have snacks available, too. Reservations are required and space is limited. $60 per person, includes three cocktails, light appetizers, tax, and gratuity. 21+ only. SATURDAY, Feb. 9 LOVE IN THE KENNEBUNKS: 11-11:45 a.m. at the Brick Store Museum. DRINKS THROUGH THE DECADES: 1-3 p.m. at the Kennebunkport Inn. Learn how to prepare iconic cocktails from five decades of libations. From the timeless Manhattan 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 (5) sample-size cocktails and a few snacks. *Class is open to adults 21 years of age or older. Proper ID is required at door.* $40 per person. SMALL GROUP COCKTAIL CLASS: 1-3 p.m. at Old Vines Wine Bar. Ever wonder how our bartenders create their newest concoctions? $60 per person, includes three cocktails, light appetizers, tax, and gratuity. 21+ only.

LOVE IN THE KENNEBUNKS: 11-11:45 a.m. at the Brick Store Museum. It’s cold outside – so warm up with love stories! Learn about the lives of the Kennebunkers of history on a tour through the Museum’s galleries and collections storage, with a Valentine’s-themed twist: love stories! This 45-minute tour through the Museum requires the use of stairs for portions of the program. Cost: $10 per person (half price for museum members!).

COUPLES PAINT TOGETHER: 3-5 p.m. at Make It KPT. Come with your sweetie and paint two canvases that fit together to make a beautiful picture. Be as creative as you feel! Put your unique spin on the image provided, or do something completely original. The result will be a special keepsake of your relationship. Canvases, brushes, paint, and light snacks are included. $59 per couple.

SMALL GROUP COCKTAIL CLASS: 1-3 p.m. at Old Vines Wine Bar. Ever wonder how our bartenders create their newest concoctions? Do you know

EARTH AT HIDDEN POND’S WINTER DINNER: 6 p.m. at Ocean at Cape Arundel Inn. Can’t wait until May for a taste of Earth? Join us for an exclusive first look of Chef Joe Schafer’s up-

coming 2019 menu on Saturday, February 9th, limited seating available. 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. $135 per person. Includes three-course dinner, wine pairing, and tax. Does not include gratuity. WEDNESDAY, Feb 13 FRENCH FAMILY WINE DINNER: 6-9 p.m. at Old Vines Wine Bar. Great food and wine, informal and free of nonsense. Our wine list is full of little-known gems from family-owned vineyards around the world. It's only fitting to celebrate them with a proper family dinner. This month, we celebrate the wine and cuisine of France. Menu and wine pairings to follow soon. Dinner is elegant, yet informal - hors d'oeuvres, plus four courses served family style - deftly executed by chef Joel Souza and his team. Guests are seated at tables of 8-10, ensuring you make a new friend or two. Live background music helps to set the right ambiance. Our wine director, Sam Cote, is on hand to explain each wine and answer questions. Absolutely no forced pairings or boring lectures! We limit seating to approximately 40 guests to ensure dinner feels intimate. And every dinner sells out, so reserve your spots today. $95 includes dinner, wine, tax, and gratuity. Cash bar available. 21+ only.

on hand to explain each wine and answer questions. Absolutely no forced pairings or boring lectures! We limit seating to approximately 40 guests to ensure dinner feels intimate. And every dinner sells out, so reserve your spots today. $95 includes dinner, wine, tax, and gratuity. Cash bar available. 21+ only. SATURDAY, Feb. 16 LOVE IN THE KENNEBUNKS: 11-11:45 a.m. at the Brick Store Museum. Cost: $10 per person (half price for museum members!). SMALL GROUP COCKTAIL CLASS: 1-3 p.m. at Old Vines Wine Bar. $60 per person, includes three cocktails, light appetizers, tax, and gratuity. 21+ only. WINES & VALENTINES: 1-3 p.m. at the Kennebunkport Inn. Join The Burleigh team at the Kennebunkport Inn for their annual Valentine’s wine tasting, Wines & Valentines. Enjoy wine pairings and delicious small plates. *Class is open to adults 21 years of age or older. Proper ID is required at door. $20 per person or $35 per couple. COUPLES PAINT TOGETHER: 3-5 p.m. at Make It KPT. Come with your sweetie and paint two canvases that fit together to make a beautiful picture. Be as creative as you feel! Put your unique spin on the image provided, or do something completely original. The result will be a special keepsake of your relationship. Canvases, brushes, paint, and light snacks are included. $59 per couple. SUSHI MAKING DEMONSTRATION: 4-6 p.m. at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel + Restaurant. Have you always wanted to learn to make sushi? Or maybe you need a refresh on how to make

sushi rice? Or are you just here for the sake!? Class includes: interactive demonstration on various sushi making techniques, light snacks including edamame & shishito peppers, sake tasting, sushi rolling kit to take home, 3-course meal: miso soup, two sushi rolls, and fried plantains. *Class is open to adults 21 years of age or older. Proper ID is required at door. $50 per person. SATURDAY, Feb. 23

February is a lovely time to make the most of living in the Kennebunks, so invite your in-town or out-of-town friends to join you and #lovekpt and #lovekbk! For information, visit LoveTheKennebunks.com. Laura Snyder Smith is the Marketing & Events Manager for the Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce in Kennebunk. She may be reached at events@gokennebunks.com.

LOVE IN THE KENNEBUNKS: 11-11:45 a.m. at the Brick Store Museum. Cost: $10 per person (half price for museum members!). OYSTER SHUCKING CLASS WITH WINE PAIRINGS: 1-3 p.m. at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel + Restaurant. Perfect your shucking skill at The Boathouse while learning all about Maine’s oysters from one of our local oyster farmers. Class includes: hands-on instruction with a half dozen oysters, wine tasting & education on three wines that pair well with oysters, light snacks and an oyster knife. *Class is open to adults 21 years of age or older. Proper ID is required at door. $45 per person. AVALANCHE 2019: 6-11:30 p.m. at Old Vines Wine Bar. Chill out for a full night of food, wine, beer, specialty cocktails, and live music, plus a late night dance party - and late night snacks - for one low price. It includes: All-You-Can-Eat Buffet, Extreme Dessert Table, Outdoor Ice Bar, Dueling Pianos with Seth and Jimmy, Speciality Avalanche Cocktails, Late Night Dance Party with DJ Nate 10pm-midnight. $120 per person, includes food, beer, wine by the glass, Avalanche specialty cocktails, tax, and gratuity. Full bar available on a cash basis. Tickets required and space is limited. 21+.

THURSDAY, Feb 14 FRENCH FAMILY WINE DINNER: 6-9 p.m. at Old Vines Wine Bar. Great food and wine, informal and free of nonsense. Our wine list is full of little-known gems from family-owned vineyards around the world. It's only fitting to celebrate them with a proper family dinner. This month, we celebrate the wine and cuisine of France. Menu and wine pairings to follow soon. Dinner is elegant, yet informal - hors d'oeuvres, plus four courses served family style - deftly executed by chef Joel Souza and his team. Guests are seated at tables of 8-10, ensuring you make a new friend or two. Live background music helps to set the right ambiance. Our wine director, Sam Cote, is

NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FEBRUARY 2019

Community Corner

Kennebunk's Don Crisman Keeps his Super Bowl Streak Alive at 53! BY ROBERT COOK Don Crisman’s streak of attending every Super Bowl game that has ever been played since the Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs vied for the National Football League title at the Los Angeles Coliseum in 1967 is alive and well. When the AFC and NFC champions kick off Super Bowl LIII in Altanta, Ga., on Feb. 3, Crisman, 82, of Kennebunk, one of his sons, and Tom Henschel of Pittsburgh, Pa., one of two remaining members of an exclusive Never-Missed-a-Super Bowl club of fans who have attended every game, will be there. Since 2000, the NFL has set aside two tickets for each member of Crisman’s club at face value. “I’m not sure if my Patriots will be there with me,” said Crisman at his Kennebunk home a month before the Super Bowl is actually played. “But it ain’t over ‘til it’s over.” Crisman said he will make his annual pilgrimage to football’s biggest stage on Jan. 30 and return home two days after the game.

Currently, Crisman and Henschel are the only two club members left who have attended every Super Bowl. Someday he knows his streak will end. “All good things must come to an end,” Crisman said. “But I am going to try to go as long as I can.” Inside Crisman’s man cave are dozens of pieces of sports memorabilia from nearly every Super Bowl game he has attended along with many other items from the Boston Red Sox, Bruins and Celtics. Over the years, he has collected so much memorabilia that he has had to sell some of it, such as 38 game day footballs autographed by each of the MVPs from those Super Bowls. “Like my wife says, it won’t fit in the box. We just take it one year at a time,” Crisman said.

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

Robert M. Cook serves as the publisher of Neighbors of the Kennebunks Magazine. He may be reached at robert.cook@bestversionmedia.com.

The fact that Crisman will be able to attend his 53rd Super Bowl at all is no small feat. In August and September, Crisman was battling some serious health issues that did not improve until just after Thanksgiving.

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FEBRUARY 2019

Community Spotlight

Community Rallies

to Save Madison's Cafe BY JENNIFER SAUNDERS

Madison’s Café in South Berwick, Maine, is so much more than just a local eatery, for amidst the cozy interior, cheery conversations and aromas of tempting food and fresh coffee, the focus is on employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. However, tough economic times threatened to spell the end of this special gem of the local region, that is, until a community stepped up to save Madison’s Cafe. Co-founders Nicole Grant McCoomb and Sean Roy opened Madison’s Café in 2017, but in December, it looked like they would have to close due to the mounting debt — sadly, not an unusual thing in the restaurant business as many new establishments face struggles in their first years. As word got out in the local communities, however, a Go Fund Me page was launched by newly-elected Maine Rep. Tiffany Roberts-Lovell, D-South Berwick. Thanks to the generosity of the many people who’ve come to love Madison’s, $13,000 was raised — catching the attention of news sources like NECN and WGME and allowing McCoomb to sign a lease to keep the business open in 2019. It’s great news for patrons and employees alike: Madison’s was named the 2017 Employer of the Year during the 13th Annual York County Business Awards Dinner, hosted by York County Community College. McCoomb and Roy spoke with Neighbors of the Kennebunks shortly after receiving that honor, explaining how Madison’s Café aims to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and help them develop life skills, thanks in no small part to the inspiration of McCoomb’s oldest child, Madison. McCoomb and Roy have worked with School to

Real Estate

SOME OF THIS MONTH'S HOT TEST REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

Work Services and other area groups, and their employees have ranged in age from their teens to their 80s. “I think people leave here feeling happy,” McCoomb said during that conversation. “And our employees love to be here. They love working. It gives them so much – a sense of belonging, a sense of ownership.”

ACTIVE

Sq. Ft

Beds

Baths

List Price

6 Pleasant St., Kennebunkport

25,000

$6.9 million

28 Rivers Edge Dr, Kennebunk

5,939

$1.195 million

73 Wildes District Rd, Kennebunkport

1,520

$519,000

41 Parsons Beach Rd, Kennebunk

4,019

5.5

$3.175 million

500 River Rd, Arundel

4,582

$799,000

577 Ocean Ave, Wells

2,034

$1.095 million

24 Birdie Ln, Wells

2,080

$514,900

317 Wells St, Wells

2,320

$550,000

188 Bay View Rd, Saco

5,436

$2.095 million

6 Shore Rd, Biddeford

5,002

$1.15 million

743

$690,000

7 Pearl Ave, Saco

Find out more about Madison’s Café — “Where All People Matter” — and check out the latest menus at http://madisonscafeofmaine.com/.

SOLD Sq. Ft Beds Baths List Price

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8 Huckleberry Ln, Kennebunk

1,126

$560,000

15 Elizabethan Dr, Kennebunkport

4,228

3.5

$599,000

494 Webhannet Dr, Wells

3,235

$895,000

398 Eldridge Rd, Wells

1,898

3.5

$620,000

127 Ocean Ave, Wells

1,792

2.5

$1.6 million

28 & 32 Ricker Rd, Saco

2,500

$510,000

3 Blue Spruce Ln, Biddeford

2,000

$640,000

50 Lester B. Orcutt Blvd, Biddeford

2,175

$525,000

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.

Photography courtesy of Robert Dennis

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FEBRUARY 2019

Recipe Corner BY DEBBIE JOHNSON

The Perfect Prime Rib:

Perfect for Birthdays and Any Great Day INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

DEB’S TIPS:

As I've already stated, this is one of the simplest and easiest recipes to pull off. The two secret ingredients are a great cut of meat prepped by your local butcher and a very hot oven.

Always let your protein come up to room temperature before you cook it. This allows the meat to cook from the inside-out evenly.

•

First, you are going to bring your roast to room temperature. For a 3- to 4-pound prime rib, this will take approximately two to two-and-a-half hours. This is very important so that it cooks evenly.

When roasting a perfect cut of meat, always use fresh herbs if you can.

Remember my tips and hints from this fall: Bring those herb pots in from outside. They will last in your home throughout the winter, enabling you to have fresh herbs all year round.

•

Preheat your oven to 475 degrees

•

Next, make a paste with all the remaining ingredients and rub it all over the roast. Make sure you get the underneath as well as the top and the sides.

Remember to always make friends with your local butcher and your local fishmonger. Trust me! It will make all the difference in the world in your recipes.

•

Place the roast in a shallow pan, bone side down and fat side up, and then put it in the oven uncovered,.

•

Bake it for approximately 40 minutes at this temperature and then turn the temperature down to 300 degrees.

•

For every pound of the roast, cook an extra 15 minutes at 300. So, for a 4-pound roast, you will cook for an hour longer on 300.

Even as a child, if I was asked what I would like to have for my birthday dinner, it was always prime rib! Although some may be intimidated by this big, succulent bone-in roast, it is actually one of the simplest to conquer.

•

3-4 lbs prime rib

•

1/2 lb butter

•

Do not open the stove at all during the process.

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3 tbsp Herb de Provence

•

3 tbsp fresh thyme

I can remember my grandmother taking out a halfpound of butter to come up to room temperature on the cupboard at night and then making a paste of butter, fresh thyme, garlic, pepper, salt and Herb de Provence in the morning. It was like Christmas Eve all over again: the smells of the fresh thyme and the herbs all coming together in a big bowl of butter!

•

3 large garlic cloves

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Salt and pepper to season

Once it is done, you should allow the roast to rest for about 20 minutes before slicing into it. The roast should be more medium on the outside and medium rare as you cut into the middle of it, ensuring that everyone gets their favorite piece!

•

Use your drippings for au jus.

Debbie Johnson grew up in Canada and has always had a passion for the culinary arts, cooking and sharing the delicious foods she prepares with others. She is wellknown 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 right here in Neighbors of the Kennebunks magazine.

This is another recipe where it is best to make friends with your butcher as he holds the key to it coming out to perfection. When I walk through the door in February to my local butcher shop, Shields Meats, they know that I'm there to pick up my prime rib where they’ve removed the bones and then retied them back to the meat to ensure I get that medium to medium-rare temp throughout the whole roast. So Happy Birthday to me, and let's get roasting!

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

FEBRUARY 2019

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February Calendar

Time: 7:30-8:30am Cost: Free http://www.biddefordsacochamber.org

SAT., FEBRUARY 16 WINES & VALENTINES @Kennebunkport Inn Join the Burleigh team at the Kennebunkport Inn for their annual Valentine’s wine tasting. Enjoy wine pairings and delicious small plates. Proper ID is required at door. Time: 1-3pm Cost: $20 per person or $35 per couple https://destinationkennebunkport.com/paint-town-red-february-kennebunkport/

SAT., FEBRUARY 16 SUSHI-MAKING DEMONSTRATION

ALL MONTH

SAT., FEBRUARY 9

PAINT THE TOWN RED

DRINKS THROUGH THE DECADES

@Dock Square, Kennebunkport This classic coastal New England destination is literally painting the town red for romance again this February to make its claim as “New England’s Most Romantic Town.” Open businesses in Dock Square in downtown Kennebunkport will be decked out in red twinkly lights, so join in the fun with food, shopping, culture and a shot or romance. Individual events are included within the calendar and at the website below. Time: Varies Cost: Varies https://destinationkennebunkport.com/paint-town-red-february-kennebunkport/

@Kennebunkport Inn Learn how to prepare iconic cocktails from five decades of libations. From the timeless Manhattan 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. Time: 1-3pm Cost: $40 per person. Class is open to adults 21 years of age or older. http://chamber.gokennebunks.com/events/details/knights-of-columbus-family-breakfast-01-06-2019-7574

SAT., FEBRUARY 2 FROSTED! A FREEZING GOOD TIME @The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel + Restaurant Join us for the kick-off event of Kennebunkport’s Paint the Town Red month: The Fifth Annual Ice Bar! Custom ice bar with luge, light snacks, s’more and hot chocolate bars and entertainment. Each ticket includes one signature drink. Cash bar available as well. Time: 7-10pm Cost: $55/pp online or $70/pp at the door. https://destinationkennebunkport.com/paint-town-red-february-kennebunkport/

@The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel + Restaurant Whether you’ve always wanted to learn to make sushi, need a refresh on how to make sushi rice or are you just here for the sake, this event has it. Enjoy an interactive demonstration on various sushi-making techniques while sampling light snacks and sake. The event also includes a sushi-rolling kit to take home and a three-course meal with miso soup, two sushi rolls and fried plantains. For ages 21 and up. Proper ID is required at the door. Time: 4-6pm Cost: $50 per person https://destinationkennebunkport.com/paint-town-red-february-kennebunkport/

SAT., FEBRUARY 23 OYSTER SHUCKING CLASS WITH WINE PAIRINGS

SAT., FEBRUARY 9 EARTH AT HIDDEN POND WINTER DINNER @Ocean at Cape Arundel Inn & Resort Can’t wait until May for a taste of Earth? Get an exclusive first look of Chef Joe Schafer’s upcoming 2019 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 and menu favorites. Time: 6pm Cost: $135 per person https://destinationkennebunkport.com/paint-town-red-february-kennebunkport/

SUN., FEBRUARY 3

WEDS., FEBRUARY 13

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FAMILY BREAKFAST

EDUCATIONAL SESSION: FROM #METOO TO MEANINGFUL CHANGE

@St. Martha's Catholic Church Hall Enjoy a full family breakfast featuring eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, fruit, coffee, tea and milk and help raise funds for Knights of Columbus charities. Time: 8:30-11:15am Cost: $8 for Adults, $5 for youth 12 to 18, free for children under 12. http://chamber.gokennebunks.com/events/details/knights-of-columbus-family-breakfast-01-06-2019-7574

@Hampton Inn, Saco A number of companies have been in the news lately for failing to deal with workplace harassment issues properly. At this Biddeford+Saco Chamber event, Dawn Harmon and Perkins-Thompson will share insights on how to create a workplace culture that can navigate this area successfully, including how to train employees, handle incoming complaints, adhere to statutory requirements and develop resolution paths for harassment complaints that will protect your company.

NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

@The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel + Restaurant Perfect your shucking skills while learning all about Maine’s oysters from one of our local oyster farmers. Gain hands-on instruction with a half-dozen oysters and enjoy a wine tasting with education on three wines that pair well with oysters. This event also includes light snacks and your own oyster knife. The class is open to adults 21 years of age or older. Proper ID is required at door. Time: 1-3pm Cost: $45 per person https://destinationkennebunkport.com/paint-town-red-february-kennebunkport/

SAT., FEBRUARY 23 TAP TAKEOVER & BEER DINNER WITH BANDED BREWING CO. @Kennebunkport Inn Start the night right with a few welcome brews and bites in the bar from 5 to 6:30pm. Then head into the restaurant for a four-course dinner, paired with four of Banded Brewing Co.’s most popular beers. This dinner is open to adults 21 years of age or older, and proper ID is required at door. Time: 5-9pm Cost: $75 per person https://destinationkennebunkport.com/paint-town-redfebruary-kennebunkport/

FEBRUARY 2019

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